Hello dear friends, family, and members of our community—

I am so proud to share that our son Jayden (currently in 8th grade) has been invited to attend the National Youth Leadership Forum Explore STEM program this summer. He has long dreamed of becoming a surgeon, and this opportunity aligns beautifully with his passion for medicine and helping others.

What is the NYLF Explore STEM program?

NYLF Explore STEM is a week-long (5–6 day) residential or commuter program for middle school students (grades 6–8) that gives participants hands-on experience in STEM fields—including a meaningful medicine/health care simulation day led by expert faculty. It’s designed to help young students explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and medicine, while participating in interactive workshops, simulations, and working alongside peers who share their interests.

Why this is so meaningful for him:

He’s passionate about becoming a surgeon and this gives him an early, immersive look into the medical side of STEM.

Being in an environment with other motivated students and mentors will help build his confidence, spark new ideas, and strengthen his path forward.

It’s a unique opportunity at this age—rarely do 8th graders get to do such a structured program around medicine and STEM —so it could have a lasting impact on his motivation and direction.

Cost & goal for support:

The tuition for NYLF Explore STEM (middle school level) is approximately:

Residential (room + board) option: around $3,399

These fees cover on-campus meals, materials, curriculum, STEM/medicine simulations, faculty and staff, and many of the activities for the week. They do not include travel to/from the campus.

Because this is a large investment for our family, we are asking for donations from those who believe in supporting young people’s growth, especially someone so driven to a medical career. Any contribution—large or small—would be deeply appreciated and will bring him one step closer to participating in this life-changing experience.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

Your belief in him and any support you offer mean more than just the money. It reinforces that his dreams are seen, his goals matter, and that there is a community cheering him on. He is working hard, he is motivated, and this opportunity could really help him take the next steps toward fulfilling his dream of being a surgeon.

With gratitude,

Amber, Thomas and Jayden McCullough