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.

Chris is requesting a brown belt because he genuinely needs a new one for work. His current belt is worn out and unreliable, which makes it difficult for him to feel polished and professional on the job. A simple brown belt would help Chris meet workplace expectations and boost his confidence each day. While it may seem like a minor item, it is an important work essential, and having a new belt would significantly enhance his comfort and confidence at work.