Mayra Flores of Gibbon is a recipient of our 2019 Rae of Hope Character scholarship of $1000. Mayra plans on attending the University of Nebraska at Kearney this fall. She was nominated by her teacher Abby Jones. Congratulations to Mayra from all of us at McKenna's Rae of Hope Foundation. Thank you for being a Rae of Hope for those around you.
Here is what Abby Jones wrote in her nomination letter:
Dear McKenna’s Rae of Hope Character Scholarship Committee,
Helping Other People Everyday – these words describe Mayra Flores perfectly. I have witnessed numerous examples of this in the 4 years, I have known Mayra, but the most recent truly brings tears to my eyes. Gibbon recently experienced devastating flooding. Mayra’s house was in the middle of the flood and they suffered devastating losses of belongings. While the foundation of their home is fine, drywall, appliances, carpeting, etc. were destroyed. I volunteered to help clean up on Mayra’s street. It is in the aftermath of a tragedy that a person’s true character rises to the surface. Mayra is someone special. Mayra is someone stronger than I could imagine. I saw her problem solve, helping others (in both Spanish and English), her faith was strong. She didn’t place blame, she didn’t ask why, she wasn’t focused on herself. She was focused on her family and community. She rose above tragedy and because of it is a stronger person. When the flooding started, she was helping others get out and ended up being evacuated by fire trucks. If Mayra Flores can conquer the obstacle of a natural disaster and continue to help others, there is nothing that will stop her from continuing down this path!
Giving back to others is a priority for Mayra and has been throughout high school. She has spent over 200 hours volunteering. She gives back to Head Start by working with the children, reading, translating, etc. She also helps in church with Sunday school and Bible school and works with children on crafts, activities, and Bible verses. During high school, she’s volunteered for numerous FBLA and FCCLA activities including fundraisers where proceeds go to help others in the community or towards cancer research. Mayra Flores is the first one to volunteer her time and does not leave until the job is done.
Mayra has just scratched the surface of what she is capable of and the positive impact she will have on the world. Mayra Flores will be the first person in her family to attend and graduate from college. She does not have the necessary finances to attend the University of Nebraska at Kearney where she plans on majoring in Criminal Justice and minoring in Spanish. I would be pleased to share more information with you about Mayra Flores. The McKenna’s Rae of Hope Scholarship would have an immeasurable positive impact on Mayra’s future and provide her with the opportunity to continue helping others and following the path that this scholarship stands for.
Sincerely,
Abby Jones