Rachel’s life and death inspired our family to raise awareness about the rise of colorectal cancer among young adults. We established a DMF fund called "Live Like Rach" so others don’t suffer the same fate. Rachel wasn’t just a person, she was a force. There are ways to beat this, and we’re going to get there.

In 2010, as a first-time executive director, I was encouraged to meet with DMF for training and support. If they told us to do something, we did it AND it worked! I still turn to the DMF team for guidance and support. They help us continue to grow and get better. I am always learning through them.

It was amazing along the way to see the support from Giving Hearts Day and to have different people who reached out to us that were raising funds on our behalf and had asked us to be part of their events. It was an energetic moment for Down Home. We were lifted up in the community by so many people, and it helped us tell our story to many.

I would never consider myself a fundraiser, but that is the beauty of Lend A Hand Up. They take a person with passion and conviction and provide them with the foundation, tools, support, and resources to help someone in crisis. On two separate occasions, we raised more than $20K for families in need. What a gift to the community!