There was a man standing at the edge of a vast, dark forest. In his hand, he held a single lantern. Its glow was small, flickering, and fragile. As he gazed into the overwhelming darkness, doubt whispered to him:
"What difference can one small light make? This forest is too large, too deep. My light isn’t enough to guide anyone."

He stood still—believing that his light didn’t matter.

But then, a faint voice called out from the shadows:
"Is someone there? I’m lost... please help me."

Hesitant, the man lifted his lantern and took a single step forward. As he did, the light stretched just far enough for the lost traveler to see the path. That traveler followed the glow, bringing their own lantern. Step by step, more travelers joined, each carrying their own small light.

Before long, what once seemed like an endless darkness was illuminated by dozens of lanterns—each one sparked by the courage of a single person who chose to believe their light was enough.

Today, thousands of youth aging out of foster care are wandering in that same kind of darkness—alone, uncertain, and at risk.

Your generosity can be the lantern that changes everything.

When you give to Elev8 Villages, you’re doing more than donating. You’re lighting the way for young people to find safety, community, and purpose. And as your light grows, so does the village—one life at a time.

Because the journey toward hope always begins with one lantern.

Be the light. Leave a legacy.