Help me stay on the Road and in LA

Hi friends!

My name is Marlenn, and I’m reaching out with a hopeful heart. I’m trying to raise $4,000 by the end of this month so I can buy a car and continue working and building my life here in Los Angeles.

This year has turned my world upside down. After a sudden breakup from a 5-year relationship, I found myself starting over and living independently in a city where I don’t have family nearby to lean on. I’ve been incredibly lucky to borrow a car from my ex’s family in the meantime, but that situation is coming to an end. I have until the first week of May to secure another form of transportation.

Public transportation in LA is tough, and for someone like me — a Music Educator for Lovebug & Me Music — it's especially challenging. I travel across the city with a suitcase packed with instruments, bubbles, puppets, and more magical tools I use to bring joy to children through music. I even started a bilingual music program with the company — the only one of its kind in LA — to help introduce young kids to Spanish through song and play. It’s my passion, and I’ve poured so much love into it.

Right now, I’m juggling four jobs to make ends meet:

I’m a dreamer doing my best to survive and thrive in a city I love deeply — even when it feels like LA is kicking my ass. I don’t want to leave. The community of artists, creators, and kind souls I’ve found here has changed my life, and I know I have more to give.

So I’m asking for help... something that’s never easy. Every dollar, every share, and every kind word helps me stay on track, stay in this city, and keep pursuing the dreams I’ve worked so hard to build. The $4,000 will help me purchase a reliable car so I can continue working, teaching, and showing up for the community I love.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, supporting, and believing in me. This won’t be the last you hear from me in LA — not if I can help it.

With love and gratitude,

Marlenn