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A Fundraising Story: Elizabeth Smith

Hope Worldwide • February 4, 2015

Every time I found a penny or quarter on the ground or behind a couch cushion I would put it in my mason jar titled "Anchorage, Alaska".

I had just been accepted to HOPE Youth Corps and words could not fully describe the excitement that I felt to have the opportunity to go and serve. I had just started working a part time job but after calculating my expenses it started to look like I would not be able to afford the trip. A few people had even told me to give up the hope of going since it did not seem like a financially realistic goal. I needed to raise $1800 in the span of 3 months. I decided to set up a gofundme account and posted the link on Facebook hoping to help get donations for my trip.

Two weeks went by and I was still $1800 away from my goal. I started praying and asking God for help and to give me wisdom on what to do. That night at the dinner table my dad suggested that I should send out emails to friends and family and see if I would be able to raise just a little bit of money. He reminded me that most adults use and check their email multiple times a day but rarely check social media. Later that night I sent out an email telling friends and family about my trip and then attached my gofundme link at the bottom of the email.

Within ten minutes of sending out the email I received $75 in donations! Within the end of the day $375 had been raised. One of the church leaders that saw my email told his church about my project and invited me to go and share about what Hope Youth Corps was since many people had never even heard about it. They then took up an offering and helped me to cover more than half the cost of my trip. Everyday I continued to receive donation after donation until my trip was completely funded. My prayer had been answered! It was through prayer and faith in God that I was able to go and serve in Alaska.

Through HOPE Youth Corps I was able to grow closer in my walk with God, learn to serve wholeheartedly, gain friendships that will truly last a lifetime, and build memories that I will never forget. For those of you that are interested in HOPE Youth Corps but are worried about the funds, I encourage you to apply and put your hope in a God who is able to do "immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine".

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We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend and brother, Dave Tomlinson. Dave was a beloved part of the HOPE worldwide family who served in many capacities throughout his time with us, most recently as Chief Operating Officer before his retirement. He also played an important role in our Global Disaster Response and Community Service Brigades teams, serving alongside his wife, Angela. More than the roles he held, Dave was a cherished friend whose warmth, kindness, and genuine spirit touched so many people. His care for others was evident in the way he served, led, and built relationships with people around the world. Dave had a remarkable ability to encourage, uplift, and connect with people, reflecting God's love in both his leadership and his friendships. We will miss Dave deeply and are grateful for the many ways he gave of himself to HOPE worldwide and to the amazing people we get to serve. We’re holding Angela and their family close in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Dave’s presence will be deeply missed, but his faith, love, and example will remain in our hearts forever and his legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.