Opportunity for Raphael

Raphael is a very special kid.  

I'm sure most parents describe their child this way.  But even other people will tell me this after talking with Raphael for only a short time.  He has some special quality, gifts about him.  

Unlike his peers, Raphael does not participate in sports.  He has no concerns for singing or playing an instrument.  He has no desire to join clubs or step outside of his comfort zone.  I have tried for years, unsuccessfully, to get him involved in something.  I want Raphael to enjoy life, connect with others in a meaningful way and realize the depth of his potential.  But a young man with Aspergers is more concerned with the comfort of what he knows and more "cerebral" endeavors...

Yesterday, Raphael brought something home from school.  His teacher nominated him to participate in a program, "National Youth Leadership Forum: Explore STEM." 
AND HE ACTUALLY WANTS TO PARTICIPATE! 
It is an exciting opportunity for Raphael to explore the STEM fields and see if his aspirations of becoming an astronomer are a good fit for him.  AND MY SON WANTS TO PARTICIPATE IN SOMETHING!

The way the program is designed, there would be learning for Raphael on so many levels - the experience of being away from home for a week, living in a college dorm, connecting with other middleschoolers, exploring robotics design and programming, emergency medicine, forensic science and engineering.  

The tuition for this program is over $2,600 and the location is a couple hours drive.  He has been awarded a small grant of $250, but this still leaves us with a hefty balance.  And being one of 5 children in the family, it would be a struggle for us to pull together those funds.  There is also a dress code for the program, not terribly burdensome, but we would have to spend some money on clothing for Raphael to be appropriately attired.  The deadline for registration is approaching quickly - and spaces are given on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Raphael will be so happy if I tell him he can attend this program.Would you help me give this intelligent young man an opportunity for which he's truly excited?  Will you help Raphael?


*Registration and tuition are required by May 10, 2019, however since spaces are limited I would appreciate help by April 15.