Hi, my name is Nathan, and my 2026 New Year’s resolution is to give back in a meaningful way while experiencing the world from a new perspective. I’m excited to share that I’ll be traveling to India to volunteer as an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher with the International Language Program (www.ilp.org), a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

If you have a business interested in making a tax-deductible donation directly to ILP, please contact me, and I’ll provide instructions.

English is more than a language - it’s a gateway. For many children, learning English can open doors to education, employment, and life-changing opportunities. I’ll be working directly with school-aged children who are eager to learn, helping them build skills that can shape their futures.

I learned about this opportunity from my sister-in-law, who volunteered with ILP in 2018. Hearing how deeply the experience impacted her inspired me to step outside my comfort zone and do the same. ILP was founded by BYU college students who wanted to serve abroad in a meaningful way - not as tourists, but by forming real relationships and contributing directly to the communities they visited.

I’ve grown up in a small town in Northern Utah, and until now, my life has been rooted here. As a college student studying social work and human development, I’ve come to understand how deeply culture, environment, and education shape lives. Traveling to India will allow me to immerse myself in a completely different culture, religion, and way of life, helping me become more compassionate, informed, and effective in my service to others.

I love working with children and am considering a future in teaching or social work. This experience will allow me to give back while also helping guide my education and career path.

This is a 100% volunteer position, and I am responsible for all travel, housing, and living expenses. This is not a vacation - we’ll be living in dorms, teaching every weekday, eating local meals, showering with solar-heated water, and sleeping on traditional beds without central heat. I can’t wait for the challenge and the growth that will come with it!

Funds raised will cover:

• International airfare and program fees

• Visa and passport costs

• Housing and meals while in India

• Travel and health insurance

• Domestic travel and baggage fees (including school supplies for students)

Every donation - no matter the size - brings me one step closer to India and helps make a real difference in the lives of the children I’ll be teaching. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser is another powerful way to help.

Thank you for believing in education, service, and me. I’m incredibly grateful for your support.