I was once the student I now strive to help. In the 5th grade, I failed my vision screening, got glasses, and was relentlessly bullied. Ashamed, I stopped wearing them, struggling in school and life until I finally got contact lenses in the 12th grade. That moment helped shape my purpose. Today, I conduct Hearing & Vision Screening Programs, teach educators how to save lives through Professional Development, and create opportunities through Direct Staffing. I help keep kids safe at school.

I never imagined that being bullied for wearing glasses would inspire my purpose in life. Growing up, I struggled in school, sports, and social settings - all because I couldn’t see clearly. The one question that comes to mind is: how much better could I have been if I would have simply been able to see? Today, I find kids like me, offer them solutions, and help them reach their full potential. What I once saw as my worst day became the foundation of my calling.

With $25,000, we’d launch an Anti-Bullying Campaign to tackle the stigma of wearing glasses, boosting confidence and success. We’d partner with underserved, rural, border communities to provide free vision screenings and glasses to 1,000 students living below the poverty line, addressing critical gaps where resources are scarce. This funding would empower students to see clearly, overcome barriers, transform lives, and help kids achieve their lifelong dreams.