Chris, 23 years old, OR |

Wish submitted by:

Chris had a tough childhood, bouncing around foster homes, group homes, and juvenile detention centers. With a Samoan mother and a Black father, he often felt like he didn’t quite fit in anywhere. His early life was filled with anger and frustration, but he eventually learned to embrace his cultural background through various events and practices. Now as an adult, Chris uses his experiences to advocate for change in the foster care and juvenile justice systems. He believes that having a strong understanding of one’s culture and history is essential for healing and breaking the cycle of trauma. Chris is dedicated to empowering marginalized communities and wants to ensure that future generations have the resources and opportunities they need for brighter futures.

This Christmas, Chris is hoping for something practical yet meaningful—a new briefcase to help him stay organized and professional as he navigates his busy career in advocacy and systems reform. As someone who frequently attends meetings, conferences, and events, he’s often on the go, juggling his laptop, business cards, notes, and other essential supplies. His current bag is starting to show signs of wear and isn’t quite cutting it anymore. A sleek, durable briefcase would not only help him stay organized but also give him the polished, confident look he needs when meeting with stakeholders and colleagues in the field. For Chris, this gift would be more than just a useful tool—it would symbolize the professionalism and growth he’s worked so hard to achieve, while supporting him as he continues to advocate for change.