John,

It’s hard to overstate the power of a helping hand. That’s what the Children’s Defense Fund has been to me.

When I came to this country from El Salvador three years ago, I was a high school student who didn’t feel comfortable asking for help. My first several months in the U.S. were hard and lonely. I eventually decided to step outside my comfort zone, and I discovered that there were many people willing to help.

The Children’s Defense Fund Beat the Odds® scholarship and leadership development program was one of the most important helping hands to me. As an honoree, I realized a whole new community of people had my back. It gave me hope, knowing that there are people who really want me to succeed.

The CDF Beat the Odds program has been a guiding light for me as I graduated high school and started college this fall—something I never thought I’d be able to do.

But as much as it means to me, it’s even more important for my mother. She’s the one who came to the United States, worked so hard to provide me with opportunities, and has always supported me. By getting into college and earning scholarships to pave my way, I am giving back to my mother. I am helping her to achieve the dream that drove her to bring her family here.

I can’t thank you enough for supporting the Children’s Defense Fund. With every gift that you make, you’re opening doors and lending a helping hand to kids who really need it.

Gratefully,

Diana Contreras 

CDF Beat the Odds honoree

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