I am raising funds to help launch The Conclave of the Great Tit, a fledgling religion I founded after a long and difficult personal journey. After personal struggles, a deployment to Afghanistan, and years of watching scandals in organized religion, I had completely lost faith. I was raised in a strict, dogmatic tradition, and for a long time I could not separate spiritual well-being from organized religion and the failures of people within it. This Conclave is my attempt to create something simple, accessible, kind, and non-judgmental. It is where I have rediscovered my connection to nature, to the universe, and to a sense of purpose. The birds bring me joy, and the open sky gives me hope.

Right now, I need help covering the $600 filing fee for tax-exempt status, which I cannot afford on my own. This is a necessary step for The Conclave of the Great Tit to move forward officially, so we can raise funds transparently and responsibly, cooperate with other organizations, and pursue ministerial licenses. It will also help us begin channeling support to appropriate charities, especially those connected to avian health and rehabilitation. Any funds beyond the filing cost will go toward establishing donation methods and beginning relationships with charities through initial donations. If this story speaks to you, I am humbly asking for your support. This is truly a leap of faith for me, and your help would mean so much as I try to build a path rooted in kindness, acceptance, and care for birds and the natural world.