Dreaming Despite Obstacles
In a world where every child’s story is a unique blend of challenges, aspirations, and triumphs, Believe in Me has the profound honor of supporting young individuals who dare to dream big despite formidable obstacles. This year, as we disburse $50,000 in scholarships to transform lives, Von Pavlischak’s story stands out as a testament to resilience, ambition, and the transformative power of belief.
From Challenges to Opportunities
Born into a world that seemed to stack the odds against him from the start, Von’s journey is a narrative of overcoming. Von’s journey to college is a pioneering one, emerging from circumstances marked by nearly every odd stacked against him — poverty, mental health struggles, and the complexities of growing up in a multi-racial community. These challenges made his early years far from straightforward. His academic pursuits were further complicated by personal struggles with depression and anxiety, particularly challenging during his transition into a male. Yet, Von never lost sight of his dreams. His application to Believe in Me reveals a spirit undeterred by hardships, a mind keen on breaking cycles of despair.
A Mission to Uplift Youth in Need
Von’s path is emblematic of the very children Believe in Me strives to uplift — those facing barriers to access, rights, and opportunities that many of us take for granted. Our mission, rooted in compassion, trust, and innovation, is to ensure that marginalized kids like Von find a safe place to call home, gain a sense of community, and seize opportunities to learn and grow. Von’s story is a poignant reminder of why we do what we do.
A Mission to Uplift Youth in Need
Von’s path is emblematic of the very children Believe in Me strives to uplift — those facing barriers to access, rights, and opportunities that many of us take for granted. Our mission, rooted in compassion, trust, and innovation, is to ensure that marginalized kids like Von find a safe place to call home, gain a sense of community, and seize opportunities to learn and grow. Von’s story is a poignant reminder of why we do what we do.
A Vision for the Future
Expressing a clear and compelling vision for his future, Von aspires to become a Forensic Pathologist, a dream he plans to pursue through a Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Science at Eastern Washington University. His determination shines through his essays and academic performance, revealing a young man on the cusp of transforming his potential into reality. Despite a GPA that reflects the turmoil of his past, Von’s recent achievements — including making the honor roll — speak volumes of his growth and tenacity.
Empowered to Continue Learning
In Von’s own words: “Receiving this award will empower me to continue my education in college and find a successful career path. I know I can achieve academic success because I’ve been able to make the honor roll in middle school and recently in my senior year.”
