Hello fam,

It is my birthday month! I usually choose a nonprofit or organization that I believe in for my birthday fundraiser, but this year is different. 

It has been my dream for years to go to Mexico for an extended period of time to learn Spanish (so that I can be trilingual!).  I had been planning to go this upcoming October, and it was supposed to be fully funded but that funding did not end up manifesting in the way that I had hoped.

So for my birthday, I am asking my family, friends, colleagues, and community to help make this learning experience to Oaxaca possible by contributing  to my birthday fundraiser. I am hoping to raise $4,000 to cover costs for the Spanish language program, travel, lodging, meals, transportation, etc. I will be taking unpaid leave from work for 5 weeks, so your support will lessen the financial strain.

I truly believe that going to Oaxaca to learn Spanish will not only be a benefit for me but also for the people around me, the work I do, and the greater community. By immersing myself, I’m hoping I will not only be bilingual, but also bicultural as well. In addition, I’m looking into Mexican history and culture classes that I can take while I’m there (if you have any recommendations, please let me know). 

I would not be where I am right now if it wasn’t for the support of my family, friends, and community. I hope that I can lean on your support in this moment so that I can be the best person that I can be.

Thank you so much for your time and consideration.

P.S. No matter what amount you contribute, I will send you a postcard from Oaxaca, if that’s an incentive! It’s the least I can do for your generosity. :)

With love,
Trinh