Aspen’s Story: Finding the fire within

From her first day with FYR Denver in 2018, Aspen found a community that believed in her – even when she didn’t believe in herself.

Aspen’s journey has not been easy; from financial struggles, to moments of self-doubt, to the challenges of being a first-generation college student. Through all this, she’s always had one thing to rely on: the support of her FYR family.

From her first day with FYR Denver in 2018, Aspen found a community that believed in her – even when she didn’t believe in herself. Her experience with the coaches and community helped reinforce her own confidence and helped her develop a strong identity. She realized that this life was her own and she could do what was needed to be the person she wanted to be – even if that road wasn’t always easy.

Following health needs as a child that led to heart surgery, Aspen knew she wanted to work in the healthcare field. Despite lack of support from her family and financial worry, Aspen was determined to attend college and make her dream a reality.

After graduating high school during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Aspen started her first of five years at Dillard University in New Orleans, LA. In 2021, damages from hurricane Ida kept her out of school for a month. The financial burden had always been a struggle, but when her financial aid was devastatingly cut in 2022, FYR was able to step up and offer the first FYR Denver College Scholarship. Aspen found the fire within to keep pushing.

In May, Aspen will graduate from Dillard with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and will be prepping for her National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). She has already received offers for positions as a registered nurse!

Throughout her whole journey, coaches from FYR always seemed to unknowingly reach out to check in at the times she needed it most. Her story is a testament to the life-changing power of Local Clubs and the true GRIT and determination grown by a community that listens, supports and challenges. Thank you for being a part of this movement and for helping give youth the belief they need to succeed.

Aspen, we are so proud of you and honored to watch you grow!

“Don’t be scared to go after your dreams. There are always challenges in life. There’s always going to be something that comes up. You’re going to find your support, your forever friends, everything you need along the way. Don’t be afraid to take risks.”

–Aspen

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