SUPPORT KAZUO'S O'DEA JOURNEY

Hi, my name is Kazuo, and I’m reaching out for help to make my dream of attending O’Dea High School come true. For years, I’ve wanted to be part of O’Dea—not just for its academics and athletics, but for the brotherhood, leadership, and sense of responsibility it instills in its students. O’Dea is more than just a school; it’s a place where young men are expected to lead, serve, and give back to their communities. O’Dea students are stewards of the community, taking on leadership roles and making a positive impact beyond the classroom. I want to be part of that tradition, to challenge myself, to grow, and to become the kind of person who lifts others up and leads by example.

One of my biggest inspirations for attending O’Dea is because my pop, my stepdad, went there. He’s one of the people I admire most in my life. He’s strong, hardworking, and always shows up for me and my brothers, teaching us by example what it means to be a man of character. He’s told me so many stories about his time at O’Dea—how the school shaped him, the friendships he made that still last today, and the lessons that helped him become the person he is now. I see the way he carries himself, how much he values loyalty, discipline, and hard work, and I want to follow in his footsteps. He’s always told me that O’Dea isn’t just about school—it’s about becoming part of something bigger than yourself, a brotherhood that stays with you for life. More than anything, I want to experience that for myself.

The first big hurdle was getting accepted, and I’m so proud to say that I’ve made it! I’ve worked hard in school and in my community, and that effort paid off when I received my acceptance letter. On top of that, I was honored to be selected as an Edmund Rice Merit Scholar, a distinction awarded to students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, personal excellence, service, and leadership. Receiving this scholarship is not only a recognition of my hard work but also an incredible opportunity that brings me one step closer to attending O’Dea. As an Edmund Rice Scholar, I also have the opportunity to enroll in freshman honors courses, which would allow me to challenge myself even further academically.

While I am fortunate to have received both financial aid and this scholarship, the total cost of tuition at O’Dea is $22,890 per year. Even with the financial support we’ve been awarded, the remaining balance is still a significant challenge for my family. In addition to tuition, there are also fees for enrollment, books, and activities that add to the overall cost. O’Dea also requires students to have a Microsoft Surface device for schoolwork, which is another necessary expense that we have to cover. My mom and pop have always been my biggest supporters, working hard and making sacrifices to give me and my brothers the best opportunities possible. They are doing everything they can, but even with the aid we’ve received, the financial hurdle is still more than we can manage alone.

That’s why I’m reaching out—because I know that sometimes, dreams take a village to achieve. Getting accepted into O’Dea was the first step, but now I need help to take the next one. Going to O’Dea isn’t just about school for me—it’s about becoming part of a lifelong brotherhood, one that will shape me into the best version of myself. It’s about being in an environment where I can learn, grow, and reach my full potential. It’s about following in my pop’s footsteps, carrying on a tradition that means so much to me and my family, and surrounding myself with people who will push me to be better and guide me toward becoming the kind of person I strive to be.

If you’re able to contribute, even just a little, it would mean everything to me. Every bit of support gets me one step closer to this opportunity, and I’d be so grateful for any help. Thank you for believing in me and being part of my journey.