David's Fundraiser Page

Merge Opportunities helps underserved and system-impacted young adults ages 18–28 move from barriers to sustainable careers. Many of the young adults we serve are transitioning from foster care, navigating reentry, or growing up in low-income communities without access to the training, connections, and stability needed to get ahead.

Since 2023, Merge has helped place nearly 500 young adults into jobs. This year, our Long Beach Gives campaign has a simple goal:

10 Young Adults. 10 Career Pathways.

Your gift helps provide the pieces that can turn potential into a career: transportation, hands-on training, certifications, professional development, mentorship, employer connections, job placement, and continued support after someone is hired.

But what you’re really helping provide is confidence, direction, opportunity, and a chance to build a different future.

Meet Edwin.

Edwin is one example of what can happen when determination meets the right opportunity. After completing the Constructing Success Academy and earning his MC3 certification, he earned one of just 40 spots in the Western States Carpenters Pre-Apprenticeship Bootcamp. He graduated at the top of his class and entered the Carpenters Union as an apprentice.

For me, this work is also personal. I spent almost a decade as a Big Brother through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater LA. I met my Little Brother when he was eight years old, and as he approached adulthood, I kept wondering what happens to young people facing enormous barriers once the systems around them begin to disappear.

That is one of the reasons I joined Merge. Merge can be that bridge between potential and opportunity.

If you believe every young adult deserves the chance to build a sustainable future, please join us. Help us raise $25,000 to create 10 career pathways. Donate today, share the campaign, and help us open the next door.