My family taught me the importance of education and giving back to the community that raised me.

That is why I am starting the Justice Family Seed Fund Scholarship. This scholarship is aimed at students who excel in school and create positive change in their community. It is tailored to a young person who is much like I was growing up—school was important, but not my only passion. My goal for this scholarship is for it to mirror the opportunities I have been afforded in three ways. First, a seed fund is sustainable. Sustainability means long-lasting change—I hope to impact the lives of dozens of young people in meaningful ways over the life of this scholarship. That means, quite frankly, more than a one-time, $500 scholarship. Second, a seed fund represents the impact my network has had on me. So many caring adults have made my reality possible. My plan is to recreate that for one young person every year. I want a student to feel the full force of the village that raised me behind them, too. Third, and relatedly, a seed fund creates a built-in network for that young person. Donors with different jobs, backgrounds, experiences, and geography that are willing to mentor and guide a young person is crucial to their success.

I began by reaching out to members of the village that raised me. For years, they have helped shape what is possible for me. I am hoping to pay it forward, with your help, for the next young person.

I have started the fund by contributing $1,000—this is a commitment I will make each year (indeed, I will contribute more as the scholarship grows). I hope you will join me. There is no amount of money that is too small: that is what the village is for. My goal this first year is to raise $10,000. If you are willing, and able, to contribute to this fund, I would greatly appreciate it. Each year, I hope to keep a “subscriber” list of sorts so that the scholarship can continue to thrive.