My mission is to support future "helpers" — young people with the passion and calling to support individuals facing mental health or substance abuse challenges. This mission is deeply personal. On March 17th, 2025, I lost my brother, David Thomas Blythe, who was 14 months younger than me and a cornerstone of who I am. David was on the Autism Spectrum and also struggled with mental health and substance abuse. These diagnoses are not all that he was. He was kind, gentle, giving, curious, imaginative and funny. We miss him deeply. David's life changed the trajectory of mine. I began with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Ed, but as his struggles became a family priority, I started seeing a system that was full of barriers, I switched gears. I became a social worker, then earned a master's degree that led me to become a guidance counselor, and later a post-master's that led me to become a licensed mental health therapist. Along the way, I also became a licensed behavior specialist working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum. It was not a straightforward path. I am the first college graduate on both sides of my family, immediate and extended. I had to navigate much of college on my own. But that path wouldn't have been possible without David. Because of him I have the empathy, compassion, and drive to help others. I created this scholarship to encourage other helpers to pursue their calling. The world needs more compassion, and more helpers willing to advocate for better systems for those in need. Thank you for reading my story and for getting to know my brother, David.