Community Partners

Repetto Elementary School

I attended Repetto Elementary School from first grade until the start of the pandemic. It’s where I built so many happy childhood memories and made lifelong friends. Repetto is more than just a school to me — it's where I grew up, learned, laughed, and became who I am today.

Monterey Park Bruggemeyer Library

One of my earliest memories is visiting this library during a kindergarten field trip with Alpha-Shen Preschool & Kindergarten. We joined a reading session and played in the children’s area — it was magical. That experience sparked a lifelong love for books, and now I get to return with a story of my own to share.

City of Hope Children's Cancer Center

City of Hope and its incredible medical staff gave me a second chance at life. I was diagnosed with leukemia right before my 13th birthday, and the care, compassion, and expertise I received during my two and a half years of treatment made all the difference.

Their unwavering support helped my family and me through the toughest time of our lives. I am forever grateful to the doctors, nurses, and staff who guided me through my healing journey. I truly wouldn’t be here — or working on this project — without them.

I’m also very thankful for City of Hope’s Academic Advocacy Program, which helped me continue my education even while undergoing intensive cancer treatment. Their dedication to supporting the whole patient — body, mind, and future — allowed me to keep learning and growing when it mattered most.

This book is part of my way of giving back and honoring the gift of life I was given. Through The Second Race, I want to inspire young children and give them hope — especially those who are in the battles like mine — to learn important life skills early and to see how powerful support, education, and community can be.

Spark Afterschool Academy

Spark was where I performed in my very first talent show and spent some of my favorite summers. Their afterschool program and summer camp gave me a fun, creative outlet and a safe space to grow. I carry many fond memories from my time at Spark, and I’m excited to bring something back to the next generation of kids there.

Girl Scout troops

I’ve been a Girl Scout since I was five years old. From selling cookies to organizing service projects, I’ve gained so many valuable skills through this incredible program. Most importantly, Girl Scouts has taught me the power of giving back. Now, through this Gold Award project, I hope to inspire the little ones — just like I once was — to dream big, learn early, and make a difference.

A Strong Community in Real Life - and in the Story

In the book, Tilly the turtle and Louie the puppy are surrounded by friends and family who encourage them to make smart choices and cheer them on in their second race. That same spirit of kindness, encouragement, and helping others is something I’ve experienced in the real world, through the communities that have supported me throughout my life.

This project is a way to give back and inspire the next generation to not only make wise money choices, but to also be generous, thoughtful, and community-minded - just like Tilly and Louie learn to be.

Thank you to every school, library, and organization helping me bring this story to more children!