I am creating this GoFund Me page to help Ella Thurnau, Kendell Thurnau's (late Director of City Light and dearest friend to all) daughter, attend her High School trip to Washington DC. Ella had originally planned to help her mother rather then attend the school trip this year. Her mother has gone home to Heaven and there is still an opportunity to attend this life changing trip if Ella can raise the funds needed by March 2nd. Ella grab the world by the horns! We all know you will grow exponentially through this opportunity. Your mother, and all who know you, are so proud of the young lady you have become and are becoming!

Below is a letter written by Ella:

Dear friends and family,

As I embark on an extraordinary educational journey to our nation’s capital, Washington D.C., I am humbly reaching out to you with a heart full of hope and a spirit steeped in faith. My school, Cole Valley Christian, is preparing to take their 9th grade students on the yearly historic adventure that promises to ignite our minds and souls with the rich tapestry of our nation’s heritage.

This trip, infused with the Christian values of community, fellowship, and understanding, holds immense significance to me personally. As a student committed to the excellence of my education, I firmly believe that experiences such as these offer invaluable opportunities for us students to witness firsthand the principles on which our great nation was founded.

Why is this letter important to me? This journey is more than just a school trip; it is a pilgrimage of knowledge, faith, and unity. It is an opportunity for me and my classmates to walk in the footsteps of leaders who, guided by their faith, forged a path towards freedom, justice, and equality for all. It is a chance for us to explore the intersections of history, faith, and civic responsibility. Empowering us to become conscientious stewards of our shared heritage.

Your generous support is vital in making this experience accessible to me. The cost of this trip, totaling $2,800 per student, includes all transportation, accommodations, meals and entry fees to historical sites and museums. While the value of this journey is immeasurable, the financial burden can be daunting to families, mine included. Your contribution would not only alleviate this burden but would also ensure I get to participate in such a wonderful experience.

March 2nd marks the deadline for securing the necessary funds to make this a reality for me. With your support, I can turn my dream into a reality and my aspirations into achievements. Your donation, no matter the amount, would be a beacon of hope to me. Illuminating my path towards knowledge, understanding, and enlightenment.

In closing, I send my deepest gratitude for considering this request. Your generosity will leave an indelible mark on my heart and mind, shaping me into a compassionate, informed, and engaged citizen of tomorrow. Thank you for your time.

May the Lord Bless you! -Ella