71Five VoTech is more than a place to learn a trade—it has been a turning point for Tristan. In her journey from mental and physical struggles to feeling alive is when she comes to 71Five VoTech. Through hands-on skill-building, genuine mentorship, and the power of connection, she discovered her worth, her voice, and her place in the world. Tristan’s grandmother told me yesterday, “When Tristan is not feeling well, she will want to miss math class, but not VoTech.” At this moment, she is in our auto shop, tearing down an old ATV that does not run. I know she will keep working on it until, with some help, she gets it running. She has also been involved in building a mini-home and has come back this summer to help finish the project. She plans on helping with several other mini-homes and will start another class this fall.

The relationships she built and the confidence she gained became the foundation for a brighter, bolder future—one she now faces with open hands and an open heart. Thank you for opening your heart for these young people at 71Five.