Thank You from a Take a Hike Grad

Dear Take a Hike donors,

My name is Toby V, I am 17 years old, and I am graduating from Take a Hike after being in this program for 3 years. When I first entered this program, I was a scared kid trying to heal from the mental abuse I endured from past experiences, on top of childhood trauma and mental abuse at home. My grades were falling and so was my mental and physical health; being told by adults in my life that I’d never graduate and had the intelligence of a toddler. But all that changed when I found Take a Hike 3 years ago! I have received support and care, help with food, and access to counseling and many other opportunities that I never would’ve imagined. I have hiked the Island more than I knew I could and have become part of the next generation of drag performers and queer advocates. Until I got into Take a Hike, my grades on any of my work would average F and C-, then once I got the support I needed, my grades shot up to Bs and As on average. This program saved my education and my life, and I know it can and will do the same for others.

I am beyond grateful that a program like this exists because if it didn’t then I wouldn’t be graduating this year nor would I have a stable job or even a life.

Thank you for everything.

Sincerely,

Toby