Help Our Dad Close His Business & Save Our House

For over 13 years, my dad, Jose Grajeda, has been the heart and soul of C&J Paint and Body, a shop he built from the ground up with passion and determination. My dad’s story is one of resilience and love. As a legal immigrant from Mexico, he came to this country with big dreams and a work ethic like no other. He started as an automotive painter for BMW, but when the company replaced painters with machines, he was laid off and lost his entire retirement fund. Instead of giving up, he turned his love for painting into something bigger and opened his shop in 2011.

What makes my dad truly special is that no matter how hard he worked, he was always a present, loving father. Growing up, he coached my sister and I on our youth soccer teams- teaching us about teamwork, perseverance, and heart. Some of my best memories are from those days, running on the field with him cheering us on. Beyond work and family, he has a deep love for the ocean. Whether diving or simply spending time near the water with us, it’s always been his place of peace and a place he wishes he can spend more time in the near future.

Now, my dad is facing his biggest challenge yet: letting go of his business he spent his whole life savings trying to keep afloat. After decades of tireless work and putting everyone before himself first, it’s time for him to focus on himself. To do that, our family has made the difficult and painful decision to close C&J Paint and Body and help alleviate his debt so we don’t lose our family home. It is time for us to help my dad as he has so selflessly helped others.

My dad has given so much to his family and community, and we love him deeply. It’s heartbreaking to see someone so strong and selfless struggle, but we know he’s capable of healing and his has our unconditional love and support. We can’t do this alone, though. We’re asking for your help to support my family in this journey. Every contribution helps us close this chapter and give him the fresh start he needs.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for helping my dad—who has always been there for others—take this step toward a healthier & happier life spent with his family.