Pursuing higher education has been a long time goal for me, a dream shaped by my parent’s journey and our shared commitment to building a better future. As the child of Vietnamese immigrants, I watched my parents always work tirelessly to create opportunities they themselves never had. My father, a retired welder, and my mother, a hairstylist, dedicated their time around giving me a chance to reach higher than them, emphasizing in me the belief that education was an important tool toward a better future. Growing up in a low income household, I quickly learned the value of resilience and adaptability. We didn't have much, but my parents taught me that success isn’t just about what you start with, but about what you make of it. I’ve embraced that lesson in every step of my academic journey, finding ways to turn obstacles into opportunities. For me, college isn’t just about earning a degree, it’s about taking a step forward and taking advantage of an opportunity for a better life. To prepare for college, I’ve taken opportunities to challenge myself academically. I enrolled in Early College High School, which has allowed me to take college level courses and earn my Associate of Science alongside my high school diploma. Balancing rigorous coursework has prepared me for the demands of university life, teaching me valuable skills in time management, self discipline, and perseverance. Completing college classes while in high school also strengthened my confidence. I now know that I can succeed in a college environment. One of the challenges I’ve faced as a first generation student has been navigating the college application and financial aid processes. Without a family background in higher education, I had to learn the ropes on my own. Luckily, I got an extremely knowledgeable teacher who made it a priority for us to learn everything we need to know from selecting our colleges to applying. ECHS and the people here have been invaluable, and I couldn’t have asked for a better community. Financial concerns have also been a daunting issue. I’m aware that college expenses could place a strain on my family, and I am determined to lessen that burden as much as possible. I’ve worked hard to ensure that I am maintaining a good GPA and have applied to scholarships to help fund my education. Every dollar I can save through scholarships like this one brings me closer to my goal without adding to my family’s financial burden. Beyond academics, I’ve prepared myself by building skills outside the classroom. I’m a member of my high school’s Red Cross Club and have volunteered at SPCA, experiences that taught me the importance of community and giving back. These roles helped me develop leadership and teamwork skills, and they reinforced my desire to make a positive impact. I know that college will be a good opportunity to broaden this impact, connecting me with a variety of people who share my goals and will help me grow. When I think about my future, I hope to look back and feel that I have lived a life that has not only brought me personal fulfillment but has also positively impacted those around me. College is my first step in that journey, and I’m confident that I will be able to make the most out of the opportunities that are available for me.

I’ve grown up in a low income, Vietnamese household where hard work is not just encouraged but essential. My parents, who don’t have college degrees, shaped my values early on. My father is a retired welder, and my mother is a hair stylist. Having watched them put in hours to make ends meet inspired my desire to achieve more for myself and for them. I was taught from a young age that education would be an essential tool to unlock opportunities they didn’t have, and I became determined to pursue college and make a meaningful impact. This ambition led me to pursue mechanical engineering, a field that aligns with my natural curiosity and love for hands-on problem solving. I’ve always had an interest in how things work, from taking apart objects as a kid to fixing and putting together household items with my dad. I want to create solutions that improve lives in a real, visible way. Whatever projects I work on in the future, my dream is to contribute to projects that leave a positive impact. Even if I won’t be directly recognized for my contributions, I want to know that my work has made life easier, safer, or more enjoyable for others. To set myself up for success, I enrolled in Early College High School (ECHS), allowing me to graduate with both a high school diploma and an Associate of Science. This experience has been transformative, providing not only an academic head start but also the confidence that I can thrive in challenging environments. Balancing college level coursework with high school responsibilities has required discipline and time management, preparing me for the demands of a four year university. Receiving this scholarship would impact my career goals profoundly. With the contributed financial support, there would be less worry toward paying for my education, allowing me to focus on academic opportunities and internships in engineering that would deepen my practical knowledge and prepare me for the workforce. These experiences would be significant in developing the skills and connections I need to secure a position where I can make a meaningful impact as a mechanical engineer. When I look back on my life, I want to see a journey defined by resilience, gratitude, and impact. I hope to have achieved a successful career in mechanical engineering, but also to have positively influenced others along the way. This scholarship would not only help me achieve my educational and career goals but would also be a stepping stone in my commitment to making a difference. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply, and I am hopeful that this scholarship will enable me to bring my goals to life.

My goals for the future include personal growth, contributing to my community, and becoming a skilled engineer. Pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering is one focus, as it combines my passion for hands-on problem solving with the potential to make a tangible impact. Whatever projects I work on in the future, I hope they leave a positive impact. Even if I won’t be directly recognized for my contributions, I want to know that my work has made life easier, safer, or more enjoyable for others. From an early age, I developed a strong work ethic by watching my parents who have both worked hard to support our family. Growing up in this household, I learned the importance of resilience and resourcefulness. My father, a retired welder, and my mother, a hair stylist, showed me that while a college degree wasn’t part of their journey, it could be an important tool toward a path to a better future for me. They drive my desire to work hard, pursue higher education, and eventually give back to them and others. This has inspired me to be compassionate toward others, always aiming to make a difference, whether big or small. Their actions taught me to value hard work and to give back in whatever way I can. To achieve my goal of becoming a mechanical engineer, I’ve dedicated myself to preparing myself for a successful college experience. I chose to go to Early College High School(ECHS), which has given me the opportunity to earn an Associate of Science alongside my high school diploma. This experience has not only prepared me for the academic rigor of college but has also taught me time management and study skills. Balancing college courses with high school responsibilities has been challenging, but it has helped develop a sense of discipline and confidence that I will carry into university. In addition to academics, I’ve engaged in activities that have helped me grow personally. I volunteer at the SPCA and am involved in Red Cross Club, where I’ve learned the value of giving back and working together with others. These experiences have been essential in building my character and reinforcing my commitment to my goals. However, the path to achieving my goals has not been easy. Coming from a low income background, financial concerns have always been a concern. Knowing that my parents do not have the means to fully support my college education, I’ve applied for numerous scholarships and worked hard to maintain good academic standing to help ease the burden. The reality of navigating the financial aspect of college is daunting, but it has motivated me to work even harder. Taking a different path from my parents has often meant finding my own way and being proactive, which has made me more independent and resilient. Looking ahead, I know there will be additional hardships as I pursue a college education. Mechanical engineering is a demanding field, and I expect rigorous coursework and intense projects. Balancing these academic responsibilities will be challenging, but my experience in ECHS has prepared me. I also know that adjusting to university life will be daunting. However, I am determined to overcome these challenges, knowing that each hardship will strengthen my resolve and bring me one step closer to achieving my goals. Ultimately, my journey is defined by perseverance and a desire to make a difference. I am committed to working hard, both academically and personally, to achieve my dreams. With the experiences I’ve gained, I am confident that I can navigate the challenges ahead and make a meaningful impact as a mechanical engineer.

Growing up in a low income household, I learned early on that resilience and kindness go a long way. Watching my parents work tirelessly to provide for the family while being able to help others has inspired me to be resourceful and compassionate toward others, always aiming to make a difference, whether big or small. Their actions taught me to value hard work and to give back in whatever way I can. This is a lesson I’ve taken to heart and into the community around me. One of my first experiences in volunteering was with SPCA. It started with a simple desire to help animals but grew into an understanding of how small acts of compassion can make a change. I interacted with a variety of cats and dogs with different stories, each giving me a different experience. While working with animals taught me patience and empathy, I also witnessed the impact this organization has on the community, offering hope to both pets and people. Through this work, I realized the strength of community service in bringing individuals together for a common goal and helping to uplift those in need. Later on, I joined Red Cross Club, which gave me the chance to deepen my involvement in the community. At the end of every month we do a park cleanup, and the first one of the year made a significant impact on me. After cleaning up one park, we planned to head to a second one. Near our meetup spot, though, was a birthday party. They had seen us cleaning and offered us food and drinks. Despite it being small, their kindness touched me. Seeing everyone being able to relax and have fun after the hard work made me feel content. It made me feel truly connected to the community, and let me see the impact I was able to contribute to. These activities taught me that service is often about being present and ready to step up. It’s a responsibility I now carry forward, hoping to spread a sense of unity and support wherever I go. Another meaningful experience has been participating in Kickstart Kids, a program centered on martial arts that teaches young people respect, discipline, and resilience. As I advanced, I was able to become a sort of mentor to younger students, guiding them through difficult techniques and encouraging them when they struggled. Through Kickstart Kids, I learned the importance of leading by example and the value of perseverance. It gave me the confidence to be a role model and fostered a sense of pride in seeing others grow and improve. Along with continuing these volunteering experiences, looking ahead, I’m determined to continue making a positive impact by pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering. Engineering combines creativity with practicality, and I’m drawn to the field because of its potential to solve real world problems that can improve people's lives. Even if I won’t be directly recognized for future achievements or improvements that I contributed to, just knowing that I had made a difference is enough for me to be satisfied. Whether big or small, a positive change is a positive change, and I hope to achieve that in my future career. With the foundation my family and my experiences in volunteering have provided, I am ready to continue creating positive change in college and beyond, ensuring that each step forward is a step toward a better future for all.

I’ve grown up in a low income, Vietnamese household where hard work is not just encouraged but essential. My parents, who don’t have college degrees, shaped my values early on. My father is a retired welder, and my mother is a hair stylist. Having watched them put in hours to make ends meet inspired my desire to achieve more for myself and for them. I was taught from a young age that education would be an essential tool to unlock opportunities they didn’t have, and I became determined to pursue college and make a meaningful impact. Living in this environment made me resourceful and motivated. When others saw limitations, I saw challenges I needed to overcome. In sophomore year I chose to take a class where algebra 2 is one semester and precalculus is the other. This guarantees an extremely fast pace. While the teacher taught effectively, there is only so much you can do with such limited time. This resulted in me barely comprehending the concepts learned in class. Some people may turn the blame toward the teacher, or even the class itself, but it’s much more effective to take things into your own hands. Every day after school I would study everything we went over during class, only stopping for the day when I was confident that I had fully learned everything. This is the sort of attitude I embody in the face of daunting challenges. I’ve also always had an interest in how things work, from taking apart objects as a kid to fixing and putting together household items with my dad. This curiosity evolved into an interest in mechanical engineering, where I could combine my love for hands-on problem solving with the opportunity to create solutions that improve people's lives. I’m currently enrolled in Early College High School, which has given me the opportunity to earn my Associate of Science along with my high school diploma. This program has not only given me a head start in my academics, but also helped my confidence of thriving in challenging environments. Balancing college coursework with high school responsibilities has taught me many valuable lessons that will be carried along to university. The environment of ECHS has also given me the comfortability I needed to improve my overthinking. Everyone at the school is so kind and supportive, and without the negative lenses of overthinking, it makes me see how I’m a lot less isolated and unnoticed than how I used to perceive myself. This school has not only helped me along my academic journey, but my personal growth as well. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, particularly fantasy, action, and sci-fi series like Red Rising and Scythe. Books not only help pass the time, but give different lessons. I also practice Taekwondo, which has helped me build both physical strength and discipline. I used to do it in a middle school program, but now I just train on my own. It’s been a great way to stay active along with working out. Additionally, I’m into gaming. This helps connect me to a broader community and keeps me mentally sharp in games where quick reaction time and decision making is needed. Overall, my background has shaped me into someone who is not afraid of hard work and who seeks opportunities to grow. I’ve chosen mechanical engineering because it aligns with both my interests and my desire to solve real world problems. I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in university, and I’m confident that my upbringing has given me the foundation I need to succeed.

Coming from a low-income household has taught me the importance of perseverance and resilience. My parents didn’t attend college, and our financial situation has been a daunting reminder of our limitations. These experiences have motivated me to work hard academically, knowing that education is a tool that I can use to overcome these obstacles and hardships. I’ve focused on maintaining high grades to earn scholarships and reduce the financial burden of higher education. My goal is to pursue mechanical engineering, a field that allows me to work hands-on with innovative solutions. I plan to use my skills to contribute positively to the world by developing or improving technologies that improve lives. By addressing practical problems and finding creative solutions, I hope to give back in meaningful ways. I have always wanted my job to have some sort of significance that can make an impact on people's lives, whether small or big. I am actively pursuing this path by dedicating time to learning, seeking out scholarships, and building a strong foundation in STEM. I also attended Early College High School in order to have a headstart in my career by getting my associate’s degree at the same time as my high school diploma. Through this journey, I want to show others that financial hardships don’t have to limit your potential. With determination and resourcefulness, I believe I can make a lasting impact on both my community and the world.

Iron Man, the first movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has had the greatest impact on my life for several reasons. Despite not being someone who watches movies often, Iron Man stands out to me because of the transformation of Tony Stark and its message about responsibility and innovation. The movie begins with Tony Stark, a wealthy and arrogant weapons manufacturer, who lives a life of luxury and carelessness. However, his world is turned upside down when he is captured by terrorists and forced to realize the consequences of his work. This crucial moment in the movie is where Tony's transformation begins. The realization sparks a change in him, leading him to take responsibility for his actions and to use his intelligence and resources to make a positive impact on the world. What resonates with me the most about Iron Man is Tony Stark’s journey from a self centered billionaire to a hero who is dedicated to making the world a better place. This transformation is a powerful reminder of the importance of accountability and the potential each of us has to change and grow. Watching Tony Stark build the Iron Man suit from scratch, using nothing but his knowledge and limited resources, is incredibly inspiring. It shows the power of innovation and perseverance, and that even in overwhelming challenges, creativity and determination can lead to extraordinary outcomes. This is a parallel to how I am set back by my financial situation, yet despite that I’m trying my best with what I have and what I can do to succeed in my goals. Another aspect of the movie that I find impactful is its emphasis on the idea of using one’s talents and resources for the greater good. Tony Stark is a genius, but it’s not until he decides to use his brilliance to help others that it’s put to good use. This has influenced my own perspective on life, encouraging me to think about how I can use my skills and passions to make a positive difference in the world. The movie is a reminder that it's not just about what you have, but how you use it that defines you. Iron Man also has a strong message about the importance of resilience. Tony faces numerous obstacles throughout the movie, from his captivity to the challenges of perfecting the Iron Man suit. Despite that, though, he never gives up. He’s a regular human despite his intelligence, yet in future movies he becomes on par with superhumans who have special powers or traits. This resilience and hard work is something I admire and strive to have in my own life. The movie teaches that setbacks and failures are not the end, but rather opportunities to learn, adapt, and grow stronger. In conclusion, Iron Man has had a lasting impact on me because of its themes of transformation, responsibility, innovation, and resilience. Tony Stark’s journey from a self centered industrialist to a hero who uses his talents for the greater good is a powerful story that has influenced my own values and aspirations. The movie serves as a reminder that we all have the potential to change, to take responsibility for our actions, and to use our abilities to make a positive impact on the world.

As I’ve grown older, I have come to understand that life is a journey full of continuous self improvement, where each year presents new opportunities to become a better version of yourself. With that in mind, there are three promises to my future self that I will commit to, ensuring that the older version of me has a better life. First, I promise to always prioritize learning and growth. I believe that knowledge is an important part of personal and professional development, and I am committed to continuously expanding my knowledge and skills. Whether it’s through formal education, hands-on experiences, or self study, I want to ensure that I am always challenging myself to learn more and to grow in ways that will help me adapt to any situation I may find myself in. Second, I promise to maintain my resilience and perseverance when facing challenges. Life inevitably presents obstacles, but I’ve learned that it’s how we respond to those challenges that defines our success. I will commit to staying determined and focused, even when the path forward is difficult. By having resilience, I will ensure that my future self can continue progressing toward my goals. Third, I promise to remain financially responsible. Pursuing higher education comes with significant costs, which makes the management of your finances extremely important. I will commit to making thoughtful decisions about how I spend my money, focusing on what truly matters for my personal and educational growth. This not only supports my current path but also creates habits that will serve me well throughout my life. This scholarship is an essential part of fulfilling these promises. My family’s financial situation has made the idea of paying for college intimidating. My father is a former welder who is now retired, and my mother, a hair stylist, works tirelessly to support our family. Despite their hard work, our resources are limited, and the cost of higher education is a significant burden. This scholarship would lighten some of that financial pressure, allowing me to focus on my studies and personal growth without the constant worry of how I will afford my education. Receiving this scholarship would directly support my first promise to prioritize learning and growth. With the financial assistance it provides, I would have access to educational opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. This would enable me to fully engage in my studies, gain specialized knowledge in my chosen field of mechanical engineering, and participate in internships or research opportunities that will enhance my skills and career prospects. Furthermore, this scholarship would help reduce the financial burden I’ll face, allowing me to focus on my education rather than being consumed by financial stress. With this support, I can shift my focus from worrying about how to stretch my finances to investing more deeply in my academic and personal growth. In conclusion, the three promises I make to my future self are commitments that will guide me toward a better life. This scholarship is a crucial part of that journey, providing the financial support I need to achieve my higher education goals and ultimately become the best version of myself. By investing in my education, this scholarship will help me build a future where I can continue to grow, overcome challenges, and make a positive impact on the world around me.

Books have been a big part of my life. Whether I’m reading because I have nothing else to do or because I want to, it has always been a way to escape from reality. Despite this, though, the lessons I have learned from books have always been relevant. Two series that have impacted me are the Red Rising series by Pierce Brown and the Scythe series by Neal Shusterman. These books have not only entertained me but have also shaped my goals and outlook on life. The Red Rising series, set in a dystopian future where society is divided into color coded castes, explores the themes of power, rebellion, and the struggle for freedom. The protagonist, Darrow, rises from the lowest caste to challenge the oppressive system that keeps his people in servitude. This series has taught me the importance of resilience and the power of standing up for what you believe in, even when the odds are stacked against you. This has influenced my own goals by reinforcing my desire to rise above my disadvantageous financial situation and to use my future skills in mechanical engineering to create solutions that benefit many. Similarly, the Scythe series by Neal Shusterman, set in a future where death has been conquered and society is governed by an elite group of Scythes who control population growth, offers great insights into ethics and the consequences of absolute power. The series explores what happens when human life is placed in the hands of a select few and raises questions about morality and the nature of humanity. This series has made me think about the ethical implications of technology and innovation, which are issues that are relevant to the field of mechanical engineering. It has taught me that it is essential to consider the broader impact of the work I do, especially as I pursue a career in STEM. These books have shaped my goals in several key ways. They have deepened my commitment to using my education to contribute to positive change. Just as Darrow and the characters in the Red Rising series fight for a more just world, I want to use my knowledge and skills to create technologies that improve lives and make the world a fairer place. In addition, the ethical dilemmas presented in the Scythe series have made me more aware of the responsibilities that come with working in STEM. As I pursue my degree in mechanical engineering, I aim to approach my work with a strong sense of ethics, ensuring that the innovations I contribute to are adequate enough for use. Lastly, these books have taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of being adaptable in the face of challenges. Both series feature characters who are constantly tested and who must adapt to survive and achieve their goals. This lesson is particularly relevant to my own journey, as I know that the path to becoming a mechanical engineer will be challenging. However, just as the characters in my favorite books push through difficulties, I am committed to overcoming any obstacles that come my way, using them as opportunities for growth. In conclusion, the books I’ve read, particularly the Red Rising and Scythe series, have played a significant role in shaping my goals and aspirations. They have taught me the importance of resilience and responsibility. As I continue on my educational journey, I carry these lessons with me, striving to become a mechanical engineer who not only excels in the field but also contributes to making the world a better place.

Going to college represents a critical step in my journey toward personal growth, academic achievement, and career success. It’s more than just an opportunity to gain knowledge, but a way to realize my full potential. College offers me the chance to involve myself in an environment that encourages learning, innovation, and critical thinking. It’s a place where I can engage with challenging coursework, collaborate with like minded peers, and learn from experienced professors who can guide me in my academic and professional development. By attending college, I aim to gain a deep understanding of mechanical engineering, a field that has always fascinated me due to its emphasis on hands on problem solving and its potential to create impactful solutions. One of my primary goals in attending college is to develop the specialized knowledge and skills necessary to excel in mechanical engineering. Through my college education, I hope to acquire a strong foundation for it, enabling me to contribute to innovations that can address some of the world’s challenges. College will provide me with the resources, mentorship, and practical experience such as internships and research opportunities, that are essential for my development in the field. Beyond academic achievement, college is also about personal growth. It’s an environment that encourages independence, self discipline, and the exploration of new ideas and perspectives. I see college as a place where I can develop not just intellectually, but also personally. It gives the chance to engage in extracurricular activities, to participate in community service, and to build relationships with a diverse group of people. These experiences will help me become a better version of myself that is suited for a successful future. In addition to academic and personal growth, attending college is crucial for my career preparation. The job market, especially in STEM fields, is highly competitive, and having a college degree is often expected for entry level positions. However, my goal is not just to secure a job, but to build a career that is both fulfilling and impactful. By earning a degree in mechanical engineering, I aim to position myself as a qualified individual who can contribute to meaningful projects. Moreover, college represents an important opportunity in my life. As the first generation in my family to attend college, I am driven by the desire to not only better my own life but to also better the life of my family and to inspire others. I want to show that it is possible to overcome financial and social barriers to achieve one’s dreams, and that education is a powerful tool for creating a better future if you use it right. In conclusion, going to college means taking advantage of the opportunity for personal growth and the preparation for a successful and impactful career. My goal is to acquire the knowledge and skills needed to excel in mechanical engineering, to grow as an individual, and to use my education as a stepping stone toward a future where I can make significant contributions to society. College is not just a milestone, but a critical part of my journey toward achieving my ambitions and making a positive difference in the world.

From a young age, I’ve always enjoyed doing activities that are more hands on such as putting together desks or installing a new door. This led me to being fascinated by how things work and how they are put together. In addition to this, I loved figuring out solutions to problems and the satisfaction that came with it after the hard work I put into figuring it out. This naturally led me to develop a passion for mechanical engineering, a field that combines my love for being hands on and my interest in solving complex problems. Mechanical engineering excites me because it’s all about turning ideas into reality. I’m drawn to the challenge of designing, building, and refining machines and systems that can improve how we live and work. Whether it’s developing more efficient engines or innovating new technologies, the possibilities within this field are huge, and I’m eager to contribute to these advancements. As I pursue a degree in mechanical engineering, my goal is to gain a deep understanding of how to apply scientific and mathematical principles to real world problems. I could use my skills to create solutions that are both effective and environmentally sustainable. I want to be part of the movement that pushes technology forward, finding ways to make our lives better. Beyond the technical aspects, I’m passionate about the hands on nature of mechanical engineering. I find great satisfaction in working directly with materials and parts, testing and refining designs until they perform exactly as intended. This approach to problem solving is where I feel most engaged and motivated. It’s not just about understanding theories, but about applying them to create real, working solutions. In the future, I plan to use my education in mechanical engineering to enter a career where I can continue to work hands on, designing and building systems that address some of the issues we face today. Whether it’s in automotives, where I could work on creating more efficient and sustainable vehicles, or in robotics, where I could help develop machines that can assist in various industries, my goal is to make a meaningful impact through my work. In summary, my passion for mechanical engineering comes from a curiosity and a love for working hands on with physical things. I’m excited to pursue this path and use my skills to create innovative solutions that can improve lives and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Growing up in a family where financial stability has often been a challenge, I’ve learned the value of hard work and the importance of education. My father, who was once a welder and now retired, and my mother, who works as a hairstylist, have always emphasized that education is the key to a better future. They didn’t have the opportunity to attend college themselves, so they’ve worked tirelessly to support my academic goals. However, with our limited financial resources, the cost of higher education is a significant concern. I have been applying for scholarships and maintaining strong academic performance, but it remains uncertain if it will be enough as I prepare to enter higher education. One of the ways I’ve chosen to give back to my community is by volunteering at community events. I have both participated and cleaned up for these. The experiences I have been through have taught me the importance of service and the impact that even small actions can have on those around us. One of my most rewarding experiences has been volunteering at an elementary's fall festival. Even if I only helped set up and did face painting and temporary tattoos, the smiles and happiness that I brought made it more significant to me. In addition to community work, the safety and well-being of children and youth, both in-person and online is important as well. Even if I have not been affected directly, I have heard of the devastating effects of bullying and have kept it in mind to prevent it whenever the opportunity arises. During my time volunteering, there is always a wide variety of people that I meet. If there is any moment that seems to require my attention and action then I will step in. Online, I’ve been equally active in promoting respectful behavior. I consistently model positive interactions in the online communities I’m in and call out harmful behavior when I see it. By helping contribute to a culture of kindness and accountability, I hope to make both in person and online spaces safer for everyone. As I enter higher education, my financial need is significant, but my resolve to succeed is even greater. I am determined to use my education not only to improve my own life but also to continue giving back to my community and to advocate for the safety and well being of others. My experiences have taught me that we all have a role to play in making our communities stronger and more supportive, and I am committed to being a positive part of that effort.