As a single mother of two, I’ve watched my 14-year-old son face more challenges than most kids his age. He’s endured the heartbreak of losing his grandmother and great-grandfather to dementia, and the tragic loss of his uncle, who was killed while working as a security guard. On top of that, he’s struggled with ADHD and bullying at school. Despite all of this, my son has shown incredible resilience. Over the past year, he’s made a complete turnaround—his grades have soared, he’s made new friends, and he’s become more confident and hopeful about his future.

Now, he’s been given an amazing opportunity: he’s been accepted as a foreign exchange student to Kofu, Japan. This trip is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for him to experience a new culture, learn, and grow. The funds raised will help cover his airfare, a 10-day, 11-night stay, travel to Tokyo, chaperones, food, housing, and transportation to historical sites. Every dollar will go directly toward making this dream possible for him.

I am so grateful for any support you can offer. After years of caring for my mother before she passed away, and living in Iowa for 10 years without family or friends, this opportunity means everything to us. I hope this experience will open doors for my son that I never had, and I would be truly thankful for any help in making his dreams come true.