Everything changed around seven years ago, and I’m extremely grateful to say that today, I have a real life. I’ve gone from high school dropout to college graduate, I’m self-employed and in the process of starting my own business, I have healthy relationships, and I’m following my dreams. Even though it took a long time for me to realize the impact and benefits of Trails Youth Initiatives, the effects are undeniable. Trails took me in, despite the fact that I didn’t attend one of the feeder schools. They let me continue the program, even when we didn’t have the money to pay for it. Trails saw an opportunity to help a child in need, and didn’t let anything stand in the way of that. It showed me the meaning of service, support, and charity; and now I strive to follow that shining example. Currently I am actively involved in several community and worldwide organizations, through volunteering or donation, and serve as board secretary with my spiritual organization. I advocate for inclusion, equality, and peace among people, along with respect and gratitude for nature. You see, I didn’t grow up with people who believed in these things. I was never really surrounded by people who faced their fears or tried to give back to society. Trails taught me these things.