My name is Rawan. I am 18 years old and come from Syria. My father used to work as a laborer but because of health problems after coming here, he was not able to support us anymore. That’s why I dropped out of school in ninth grade to work. I worked hard for two years, and then my job ended. Because I could not find more work, I went back to study. When I returned to school, my friends had all moved to high school, and I was still with the younger grades. Because I was much older than the other students, I felt so ashamed and embarrassed of the situation.

I had no self-confidence, and I was mentally tired and felt defeated because of everything I’ve been through. I became angry all the time and would cry at night.

The GROW program helped me find a way to overcome my problems. I learned the meaning of real hope instead of just wishful thinking. The story of the two brothers who had their factory burn down really stuck with me. Each brother looked at the problem from a different angle, and it has taught me to use perspective on my life, too. I now have real hope and real goals.

I trust myself and am no longer ashamed of being the oldest person in my class. My gratitude has increased, and I thank God in every situation. I am going to continue to study and make a good future for myself and my family.

Because of the generosity of people like you, young men like Rawan have found authentic hope, and are working hard for their futures. BUT there are thousands of people with stories that are yet to end with hope. Help Tutapona provide that hope and healing by donating today.

*Name has been changed to protect the individual and family.