Help Matthew with his transition after taking the bar exam
Donation protected
I have never set up a GoFundMe before, but we have a friend who could use some
support.
We first met Matthew when we lived in Pennsylvania. I was always walking from the parking lot through the basement with my two-year-old and infant. Matthew was always in the basement studying his Bible. He was always so kind and polite to us. I introduced him to Wes and we became better friends.
Our most memorable experience with him was the day we took him to Gettysburg. He is from Liberia, which was founded by the USA , and he has a deep respect for this country. His response was emotional and reverent. I have been to Gettysburg many times over the years, but that was the most touching experience that I had there.
I asked Matthew to share a brief account of his story:
“I was born and raised during a civil war in Liberia. I lost my father in that civil war when I was just five and a half months old. Because of that civil war, I graduated kindergarten aged 10, became a refugee aged 13 in Guinea, West Africa, and even attended a United Nations refugee school in the refugee camp. I came to the United States through the grace of God, and I struggled during my first two years in the States.
However, despite all of those challenges, by the grace of God, the support of some relatives, friends, and kind strangers along with my determination and hard work, I am where I am today. During my time in the United States, I have been able to both work and go to college. I was privileged to graduate from law school in the spring of 2024, take the bar exam in July 2024, and I’m currently awaiting the results of the exam whilst also applying to jobs.
The end goal is work with an international organisation—the United Nations, African Union, World Vision, etc. I’m open to working here in the U.S., but I think I’m needed more in Africa than here. I want to use my skills and blessings to help others achieve their own goals and/or better the lives of young people whose stories are like mine.”
While studying the for bar, the expectation is to study daily, and usually not hold a job. Since he took the bar exam last month and has moved back to PA, he is currently looking for a new job that has expenses in the meantime. We are so proud of all of his hard work and what an incredible person he is. We thought that if we set up a GoFundMe, maybe a few people who are moved by his incredible story would have a desire to help him get settled this next month. Any little bit would help. Thank you for reading this!
Heidi
Organizer and beneficiary
Heidi Taylor
Organizer
Folsom, PA
Matthew Fully
Beneficiary