Helping My Friend and Mentor Rebuild After Losing Everything

I’m raising funds for my good friend and mentor, Derrick Pettiway, and his daughter, who had just come home from college. A fire completely destroyed their home, leaving them with nothing but the clothes on their backs.

This is deeply personal for me. Years ago, Derrick was there for me when I was starting out in my finance career. He believed in me, mentored me, and helped me get on my feet. Today, he’s facing one of life’s hardest moments, and I can’t stand by without helping.

I’ve been through a house fire myself, so I know exactly what it feels like. You don’t just lose the big things — you lose everything down to the smallest necessities, along with the irreplaceable items that carry a lifetime of memories and family history.

Now it’s our turn to be there for Derrick and his daughter. Every donation will help them replace essentials, secure a safe place to stay, and begin the long road of rebuilding their lives.

If you can, please donate and share. From my own experience, I can tell you — your kindness will mean more than they can ever put into words.