Past Youth Achievement Awards

The collection of testimonials below illustrate some of the wide variety of awards we've supported in the past. Each recipient is nominated by a teacher, school counselor, or social worker.

Past Scholarship Recipients

We look for scholars that are acheiving academically but also are making significant contributions to their family, school or community despite poverty, disability, or personal hardship. Each scholar is nominated by a teacher, school counselor, or social worker.

2021 Scholars

Muhammad Drammeh

Muhammad Drammeh - East High School

What are your future dreams and goals? To be a nurse and be successful.

How will the Rubin for Kids Scholarship help you move closer to achieving your dreams and goals? By helping others and myself in the process.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school? Playing soccer and hanging out with friends.

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals?: To focus on the present and future. Tell them to not give up and push nothing comes easy.

Tiara Warship

Besides going to school, what do you do? (work, hobbies, family care, passion): I do hair, I am starting a job at a nursing home, I babysit, and I am going to school for cosmetology.

What are your future dreams and goals?: My future dreams and goals are that I want to get my hair license and open my own salon.

How will the Rubin for Kids Scholarship help you move closer to achieving your dreams and goals?: The scholarship will help me move closure to achieve my dreams and goals by helping me go to college to major in cosmetology, something that I’ve been wanting to do my whole life.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school?: My favorite thing to do outside of work or school is doing hair, hanging out with friends, going shopping, and helping out when I’m needed.

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals?: I encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals is by not giving up and keeping yourself motivated and focused on what you really want to do in life.

Adrianna Miller

Besides going to school, what do you do? (work, hobbies, family care, passion): I work at Kwik Trip. I work the Kwik Trip across from Madison Area Technical College, my job responsibilities is having great people skills, moving at fast paced work environment and the ability to problem solve challenges and shift priorities quickly. One of my hobbies is cleaning and listening to music in my room. I occasionally baby sit and watch over my baby brother who 7 years old. He’s funny kid who always likes to be active by playing basketball or video game. My passion is become the the world greater influence and make a change in the community.

What are your future dreams and goals?: My future dream is I’d love to be an entrepreneur expert with successful end-end project that’s going to change to world one day with the project, I had in mind. My future goals, is to help out the homeless and give them new journey in lives to start and help African Americans get better and paid jobs to feed their families.

How will the Rubin for Kids Scholarship help you move closer to achieving your dreams and goals?: The Rubin for Kids Scholarship will help me move closer to achieve my dreams and goals by helping me provided for African American to get jobs in community with benefits and child care provide while the parent goes to school or work.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school?: My favorite thing to do outside of school is spend time with my family & friends.

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals?: I encourage other to achieve their dreams & goals by believing in themselves and trying to make a difference for their selves and family’s.

Amariyana Walls - La Follette High School

Plans to study Criminal Justice

Favorite hobby - Play Softball

Aminata Kolley - East High School

Future dream to become an Accountant

Hobbies include working out and reading novels

Brithany Torres Pacheco - Capital High School

What are your hobbies? I love writing stories and singing. I am working on a book.

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals? I would inspire them when they are in their darkest moment to truly believe there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel.

Carlton Carruthers - Memorial High School

Future Goals - I want to be come a chef

How will this scholarship move you closer to achieving your dreams and goals? I wouldn’t be able to continue my studies without this scholarship so it will allow me to follow my dream of attending college.

Hobbies - I like to cook and draw in my free time

Dana Zidani - West High School

Future Goals - My goal is to become an architect to help people rebuild especially for homeless children living in camp sites. So they have some freedom and fun to be a kid.

Hobbies - I love to spend time at the beach or the lake

Diamond Smith - Capital High school

Future goals - help children

Hobbies - I like to sign and to paint

Dylan Arriola - La Follette High School

Future Goal - I plan on studying Business Management

Hobbies - I like playing basketball or hanging out with my friends

Elysia Phon - West High School

GPA > 3.5

Future Goal - I want to complete my Bachelor’s degree so that I can get a stable job to support my family

Hobbies - I like to play sports, travel, and hang out with my friends

Jasmine Bingham - Capital High

GPA > 3.0

Future Goal - I want to become a midwife

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals? Try your hardest even when times get rough and you feel like giving up. Don’t let people bring you down and do what’s best for you because everyone can be successful in many different ways!

Ke’Sean Homesly - La Follette High School

Future Goal - I want to become an Architect

Hobbies - I enjoy roller skating, bowling, drawing, and reading

How will the Rubin for Kids Scholarship help you move closer to achieving your dreams and goals? Not having to be worried about financials will really take a load off and I'll being more focused on the goal which is to do well and graduate.

Mayra Zuniga - Shabazz High School

GPA > 3.5

Future Goal - I have wanted to be a dentist since I was 6

Hobbies - I like baking and listening to music

Extra curricular actives - Works in addition to studying.

Melanie Martinez - La Follette High School

GPA > 3.0

Hobbies - Spending time with my two younger sisters

Roberto Jimenez - East High School

Hobbies - I love to cook

Future Goal - I want to complete the Architecture program at Madison College and transfer to UW-Milwaukee to finish my architecture degree.

How will this scholarship help you achieve your dreams and goals? I would not be able to attend college without this scholarship.

Tiara Warship - Capital High School

GPA > 3.5

Future Goals - I plan on studying cosmetology at Madison College. I want to open my own salon

Hobbies - I spend most of my free time doing hair

Tyler Klund - West High School

GPA > 3.0

Future Plans - I plan on studying accounting at Madison College

How will this scholarship allow you to achieve you goals and dreams? It will allow me to focus more on school and the accounting degree and less time working and to worry less about money.

Sean Fahey - La Follette High School

GPA > 3.5

Hobbies - Reading, Wrestling, and Track

Future Goal - I want to have a master’s degree in a STEM field.

Terrell Morman - East High School

Future Plans - I plan on studying Business at Madison College

Hobbies - Basketball

How will this scholarship help you achieve your dreams and goals? I will be the first person in my family to attend college. This scholarship will allow me chart a different path for myself then my family has had.

Isaac Roman - East High School

Future Goal - I want to be come and EMT

Hobbies - I love spending time outside in nature. I feel more comfortable being in nature. Also, I like Skating and Fishing

Octavio Ugalde Gonzalez - La Follette High School

Future Goal - I want to finish Madison College and transfer to UW Madison so that I can study Mycology. After that I want to have my now mycology laboratory.

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals? Hopefully I could show others that regardless of what mistakes you made you can still change everything in the blink of an eye with a little bit of effort.

Tenzin Jangchup - West High School

GPA > 3.0

Future Goal - I want to get my degree so I can become a nurse

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school? My favorite thing to do outside work and school is take walks. I believe people don't appreciate nature and the wild life because it's just there and we see it all the time but I really like to take time to be outside and simply just enjoy the outside and take in the fresh air.

What else should we know about you? I came to America when I was 7 years old with my siblings and dad but I was born in India. I will be first generation from my family going into college, so I am very proud and happy to say that I will be attending college and I know that my family will be proud too.

Zachary Vang - La Follette High School

GPA > 3.5

Future goals and dreams - My goal is to become a biotech major. My dream is to make a big positive impact on the world.

Hobbies - I like playing tennis and volleyball and goofing around with my family.

Fatoumata Ceesay - West High School

Future Goal - My goal is to become a nurse so that I can have my own hospital one day.

How will this scholarship help you achieve you goals - This scholarship will remove the financial barrier which would prevent me from studying.

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams - I would encourage them to work hard, manage their time, find people who inspire you, and learn from your mistakes.

Tekiyah Fulks-Fisher - La Follette High School

GPA > 3.0

Future Goals - I want to become a lawyer so I can be part of the innocent project.

Extra Curricular Activities - During high school worked 30-40 hours a week to help support her family

2020 Scholars

Aaliyah Mohammed - Madison Capital High School

Plans to Study: Cosmetology and pre-law

Future Goals: To open her own business

Favorite hobby: make Youtube videos

Alan Gutierrez - Madison West High School

Hobbies: Working on cars and snowboarding

What are your future dreams and goals? To have my own business and give back to less fortunate people

Alejandra Contreras - Madison West High School

What are your future dreams and goals? I plan on studying business management and later on going into the law field to become a lawyer.

How will the Rubin for Kids Scholarship help you move closer to achieving your dreams and goals? The Rubin for Kids Scholarship will help me achieve my goals by allowing me to have more free time for me to focus on other extra curricular activities such as volunteering in my community more.

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals?Don’t let anybody interfere with your plans that you have set up for yourself.

Amil Benton - Madison La Follette High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? I work as an RA and an Dietary aid

What are your future dreams and goals? I would love to be a Registered Nurse

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school? Watch Netflix and Mini Road trips

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals? I would tell others to never give up and if you really have a dream and think something in your way of achieving those dreams know that there is always a way as long as you really want it someone will give you a chance.

Arleth Temozihui - Madison La Follette High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? My hobbies include biking, exercising, hanging out with my friends, art and crafts, I've also become a smoothie enthusiast. If i'm not doing any of those activities then you can find me taking care of siblings and helping out with house work along with my family.

What are your future dreams and goals? My future dreams and goals are to keep helping out in the community, work as a registered nurse which is my dream job, have a family of my own... Experience every milestone anyone would as they age, I specially would like to travel to places i've made a list of.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school? My favorite thing to do outside of work/school would definitely be biking, I get to go to the gas station, my friends home down the street, the beach, or park. I get to go to various places and it's such a stress reliever.

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals?By helping them along the way, as much as I can... specifically by letting them know about resources that have helped me that could potentially help them too. Become a part of their support group, motivational messages, or attend events with them that way they don't out-shy themselves from a great opportunity etc.

Brenda Maldonado - Madison La Follette High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? I love going to spending time with my family outside

What are your future dreams and goals? Get my Masters degree

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school? Kayaking, going to a lake , walks, and playing soccer

Myra Benton - Madison La Follette High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? Outside of school, I either go to work as a dietary Aid at Oakwood village or I am at home babysitting.

What are your future dreams and goals? My future dreams and goals are to go to college for Dentistry and make sure to achieve a bachelor's degree.

How will the Rubin for Kids Scholarship help you move closer to achieving your dreams and goals? Rubins for kids helped me gain an opportunity to be successful in college, as well as helping me pay for my school tuition, to attend Madison college. They made me realize that I had an opportunity to achieve my goals and dreams of becoming a dentist.

Facundo Ortiz - Madison La Follette High School

What are your future dreams and goals? I plan on becoming a bilingual dental hygienist as well as opening my photography studio

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school? My family means the world to me so spending time with them is my priority and if it is outside in nature that would be even better

Fayth Chambers - Madison Capital High School

What are your future dreams and goals? To go to college and graduate, then transfer to a 4 year college to finish up my nursing degree. I want to work at a Madison hospital for a couple years, then move out of state to Cali or Florida.

How will the Rubin for Kids Scholarship help you move closer to achieving your dreams and goals? Rubin for Kids Scholarship will help me move closer to achieving my goals by helping me pay for my college, so that I can be on the next step closer to achieving my dreams and goals of being a RN. Its always been a goal to me to be a RN because I have been through so much with my mom being disabled and having diabetes, that if I can make her happy and take care of her, I can do it to anyone.

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals? To keep pushing and never give up because life is a challenge waiting to happen. Achieving your goals isn't easy, things my not work out right, then you get frustrated and want to give up but that's what life is all about you keep pushing, even if you fail because eventually you will make it.

Jessica Ruiz - Madison La Follette High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? Hobbies and spend time with family, I want to look for a job too

What are your future dreams and goals? Have a good profession, job, and travel

What else should we know about you? I’m first generation of my family going to college, and in this new step I’m feeling nervous, scared, and happiness.

Jonathan Basave - Madison La Follette High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? I work and also take care off my little brother

What are your future dreams and goals? I want to be a mechanic and hopefully have my little shop one day

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school? Play soccer with my friends or spend time with my family

Tobias McFarlane - Madison La Follette High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? I take care of chickens, make candy, and cook. I also draw, sing, and volunteer in my school's theatre tech team. As an alumni, I will continue to volunteer in stage crew.

What are your future dreams and goals? I want to go to space and engineer a way to grow earth plants on other planets

Julian Grande Morales - Madison La Follette

Besides going to school, what do you do? During the school year, I spend time tutoring my peers after school. I would volunteer in education-related events and in National Honors Society events. I would also be involved at my school's musical; playing in the pit orchestra. This would mean rehearsing in the mornings and afternoons for the musical. Year-round, I study about my own interest in mathematics, read books, and find resources for undocumented youth to share with peers and those who need it.

What are your future dreams and goals? My goal is to become an educator, a teacher in mathematics or physics at the secondary or post-secondary level. I aspire to not only provide education to youth and young adults but also provide resources especially to those in the immigrant community. I hope that in the future, I can achieve dedicating my time to helping and advocating for immigrant students and bring an education that emphasizes equity and inclusion.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school? My favorite thing to do outside of school would be rehearsing for the musicals during the second semester. The rehearsals would bring me solace and peace from school work and my at-home life. I get to talk to people, perform music, and improve my confidence as I express myself musically with others. The musical season at my school has always taught me how to manage my time as I get very little time to study or finish school work

Maria Xelhua - Madison West High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? Work, family care, exercise

What are your future dreams and goals? Have a career as a Physician Assistant, having a family and home.

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals? Inspiring other people of color and younger women/girls who wants to become something bigger and become successful in life.

Melanie Guevara - Madison East High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? I take care of my little brother and I also like going on bike rides and swimming.

What are your future dreams and goals? My dreams and goals are to complete my associates degree and then transfer to a university to get my bachelors degree.

Melanie Yang - Madison East High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? Besides going to school I am working a part time job in retail, with minimum hours due to the pandemic. I used to play volleyball as well but because I wanted to better myself and my education I've taken a break from it. Outside of school I also take care and visit my grandma at least once a day.

What are your future dreams and goals? My future goal is to be the first in my family to graduate from college, as well as being a great older role model for my two younger siblings. Another future goal of mine is to graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing.

How will the Rubin for Kids Scholarship help you move closer to achieving your dreams and goals? The Rubin’s for kids’ scholarship will help me a lot because as a first-generation student, financially it’s been a struggle. With the help of this scholarship it will not only help further my education but also help me to peruse my future career goal as a registered nurse. Nursing is a field I truly acknowledge because they do so much for people. I too myself want to be able to ensure people and their families that they will be taken cared of with the best care.

Miranda Vasquez - Monona Grove High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? I usually work six days a week but I really enjoy traveling and camping.

What are your future dreams and goals? I am planning on attending medical school to pursue a career in psychiatry.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school? I really love reading and spending time outdoors.

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals?Persevere through everything, even if it gets tough because it’s worth it in the end.

Mitzy Magallan - Madison Capital High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? Creative writing (songs, stories, poetry,) babysit, creating awareness projects on sexual assault, ICE, discrimination, etc... I have family game nights, spend time with my little sisters, play with cat & bunnies, daily chores at home, go on walks & I help my mom with work or with my sisters etc

What are your future dreams and goals? After getting my CNA & RN certification I want to become a nurse practitioner & then become a pediatric surgeon in the end. I also, on the side- want to be a public speaker/ advocate on important issues in the world. I want to be able to provide for myself without worry/ struggle & be able to help my family out if they need it.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school? I love writing stories wether it’s fictional or not, I’m very passionate about most forms of writing. Also creating projects to raise awareness about different sorts of injustices, and of course I love spending time with my siblings everyday.

Nautiya Chu - Madison La Follette High School

What are your future dreams and goals? For a profession, I hope to be a nurse. As of right now I want to get a BA in nursing and get a job as a Registered Nurse and then specialize to nurse in specific areas in hospitals.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school? I really enjoy doing outside activities. Fishing, hiking, biking and kayaking. They're most fun when I have friends coming along.

Shemis Al Obaidi - Madison West High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? I work at pick n save I have been working there for the past two years

What else should we know about you? She was born in Iraq and moved her 4 years ago.

What are your future dreams and goals? Finish college and get a good job so I can help my family get an easier life and better

Shong Yang - Madison West High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? A hobby that I like to do is origami. I am passion about science and learning more about it in college.

What are your future dreams and goals? I want to be a dentist in the future as my career.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school? I love to take a walk on the bike path and just enjoy nature.

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals? I have a little sister who is going to be a sophomore. I encouraged her to never give up if she want something. When school is stressful for her, I tell her that it’s okay to fall down but she should get back up after. By supporting and helping my sister, she had goals that she want to achieve.

Sophia Gundlach - Madison East High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? Looking for a job, Art is a passion and hobby that I am pursuing, I take care of my dog, and I read.

What are your future dreams and goals? I dream of becoming an animator and creating pieces that will move people as much as they have done to me. I strive to get into good companies like toei animation, Kyoto animation, or even Netflix. My main goal is improving my skills and work to be better than the animations that have made me want to become an animator.

How will the Rubin for Kids Scholarship help you move closer to achieving your dreams and goals? I will be able to get supplies I need to improve my animation skills and it will help me with the classes I must take in order to be able to transfer to get a bachelors degree. I plan on attending Ringling college of art and design, a top animation school I have already gotten into. Madison college will greatly help me prepare and make sure I reach my goals to be able to transfer and this scholarship will aid in that greatly so I can focus on my studies.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school? Art is my passion. I draw when I can and it is something that can calm me if I’m upset or stressed. My current pieces have been taking more than 15 hours to complete so it helps me take my mind off of stuff.

What does this Scholarship mean to you? Since the COVID I haven’t been able to work. I was saving up money for college but it was used for necessities like my bills and care for my dog. This scholarship is truly a giant help with paying for things for college, thank you.

Star Moss - Sun Prairie High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? Besides going to school, I’m currently working part time to save money for my first semester at MATC, I help take care of my niece and nephews, and my new personal hobbies is starting my own personal library of books of many genres.

What are your future dreams and goals? My future dreams and goals is to get my Associate Degree at MATC majoring in Early Childhood Education then transfer to UW- Milwaukee and continuing my education. And to financially stable.

What else should we know about you? You should know as a first generation college students I’m extremely grateful of this Scholarship.

Terenee Johnson - Madison West High School

What are your future dreams and goals? Have my own business

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school? I like to hang out with friends

Wa Lor - Madison West High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? I like to hang out with friends online and play games from time to time. I also enjoy going outside playing different kinds of sports too, especially football. I do volunteer sometimes just because I like to help out so that's fun too.

What are your future dreams and goals? My future dreams and goals are to become either a Surgical Tech or a Nurse because both careers present great challenges to me and I'm excited to see what it has in store for me. I also want to be able to help out my parents and get a good well paying job. As well as starting a family of my own.

Xuan Johnson - Madison La Follette High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? I’m an RA at a nursing home, I run track, and I’m really looking forward into going to nursing school!

What are your future dreams and goals? My dream is to get my LPN or eventually become a doctor. I just want to travel and help out everyone who needs the help especially the children

How will the Rubin for Kids Scholarship help you move closer to achieving your dreams and goals? Helping me get the education that I need, without them I probably wouldn’t be able to afford college and I appreciate them so much for this opportunity!

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school? Definitely eat and write

Yanzong Xiong - Madison East High School

Besides going to school, what do you do? I participated and wrestled throughout my four years and served as a captain for two of the years on the wrestling team at Madison East. Other things I also enjoy are playing the drums, specifically christian music. I take part in playing the drums at the church I attend. Lastly, I enjoy playing video games and working out when I have free time as well as spending time with my family.

What are your future dreams and goals? My future dreams and goals are to complete the liberal arts transfer program at Madison College and transfer to a four year university to earn a bachelor's degree in business. I am looking forward to learning and expanding my knowledge on the world of business and its impact on the economy. I recognize that it is becoming ever more important in our society - as consumers and as individuals who would like to make a difference through business. I am also considering wrestling at the collegiate level and hope to qualify for the NCAA.

How will the Rubin for Kids Scholarship help you move closer to achieving your dreams and goals? This scholarship will help me be in a good spot financially for college. It will allow me to focus on my education and not be worried about my finances. This will decrease the stress of what many students fear for college and will allow for me to do well and achieve my goals of being in good academic standing each semester.

2019 Scholars

Karla Torres

BESIDES GOING TO SCHOOL, WHAT DO YOU DO?

Besides going to school, I work, baby sit, and go to church every Friday to prepare for Sunday service.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS AND DREAMS?

One day I hope to become a teacher and change a kids life in great positive way.

HOW HAS RUBIN FOR KIDS HELPED YOU MOVE CLOSER TO ACHIEVING OUR DREAMS AND GOALS?

Rubin for Kids helped me by taking weight off my shoulders. I am now many steps closer to attending college.

HOW WOULD YOUR LIFE BE DIFFERENT IF RUBIN FOR KIDS WERE NEVER A PART OF IT?

If Rubin were never in my life, I would to take extra shifts and get more distracted in my school work.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK AND / OR SCHOOL?

The favorite thing to do outside of work and school is I love to spend time with my friends and family, also babysitting.

HOW WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO ACHIEVE THEIR DREAMS AND GOALS?

I will help everyone by recommending Rubin for Kids.

Kalpana Budathoki

BESIDES GOING TO SCHOOL, WHAT DO YOU DO?

Besides going to school, I love to reading poetry, drawing, and playing with kids.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS AND DREAMS?

My future goals and dreams are to pursue a career in nursing and become an anesthesiologist.

HOW HAS RUBIN FOR KIDS HELPED YOU MOVE CLOSER TO ACHIEVING YOUR DREAMS AND GOALS?

Rubin for Kids helped me by providing me a scholarship and encouraging me to follow my dreams.

HOW WOULD YOUR LIFE BE DIFFERENT IF RUBIN FOR KIDS WERE NEVER A PART OF IT?

If Rubin were never in my life, Going to college would be financially challenging.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK AND / OR SCHOOL?

The favorite thing to do outside of work and school is reading novels, watching movies, and watching sports.

HOW WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO ACHIEVE THEIR DREAMS AND GOALS?

Be positive, enthusiastic, and don’t give up no matter how hard life gets. Stay focused and successful in life.

Jesus Herrera

BESIDES GOING TO SCHOOL, WHAT DO YOU DO?

Besides going to school, I work at Dick Sporting Goods.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS AND DREAMS?

My future goals and dreams are to build a daycare and care kids.

HOW HAS RUBIN FOR KIDS HELPED YOU MOVE CLOSER TO ACHIEVING YOUR DREAMS AND GOALS?

Rubin for Kids helped me by donating money to me to get closer to achieving my goals.

HOW WOULD YOUR LIFE BE DIFFERENT IF RUBIN FOR KIDS WERE NEVER A PART OF IT?

Yes, I would have to take time off from school.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK AND / OR SCHOOL?

My favorite thing is to play soccer.

HOW WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO ACHIEVE THEIR DREAMS AND GOALS?

To be patient because when everything is at a low there’s always a door open.

Ian Matthews

BESIDES GOING TO SCHOOL, WHAT DO YOU DO?

Besides going to school, I like to play lacrosse, skateboard with friends, and rap on the side.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS AND DREAMS?

My future goals and dreams are to become an athletic trainer.

HOW HAS RUBIN FOR KIDS HELPED YOU MOVE CLOSER TO ACHIEVING YOUR DREAMS AND GOALS?

Rubin for Kids helped me by providing money for college so I don’t have worry about paying later.

HOW WOULD YOUR LIFE BE DIFFERENT IF RUBIN FOR KIDS WERE NEVER A PART OF IT?

Yes, I would still be wondering how to pay for college.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK AND / OR SCHOOL?

My favorite things to do are skateboarding and rap.

HOW WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO ACHIEVE THEIR DREAMS AND GOALS?

Literally anything is possible, if you put your mind to it.

Guadalupe Zarate

BESIDES GOING TO SCHOOL, WHAT DO YOU DO?

Besides going to school, I like to volunteer at a food pantry.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS AND DREAMS?

My future goals and dreams are to get a degree in Business Management and enlist into the National Guard.

WHAT ACTIVITY DID RUBIN’S FOR KIDS HELP YOU DO? WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM DOING IT?

Rubin for Kids is helping me achieve my goals by paying my college fee which is a great support. What I have learned was to never give up in achieving my dream.

HOW HAS RUBIN FOR KIDS HELPED YOU MOVE CLOSER TO ACHIEVING YOUR DREAMS AND GOALS?

Rubin for Kids helped me by not worrying about my fees which gives me time to plan.

HOW WOULD YOUR LIFE BE DIFFERENT IF RUBIN FOR KIDS WERE NEVER A PART OF IT?

Yes, I would struggle in college without the support of Rubin for Kids.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK AND / OR SCHOOL?

My favorite things to do are working out, reading books in Spanish and English, and to relax playing some video games.

HOW WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO ACHIEVE THEIR DREAMS AND GOALS?

I would say to never up on their dreams and goals, even when you feel that it is hard push through.

Erick Manzo

BESIDES GOING TO SCHOOL, WHAT DO YOU DO?

Besides going to school, I like to babysit and play soccer.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS AND DREAMS?

My future goals and dreams are to be able to see my family get the rights and as much of a care-free life.

WHAT ACTIVITY DID RUBIN’S FOR KIDS HELP YOU DO? WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM DOING IT?

Rubin for Kids is helping me achieve my goals by creating an opportunity to attend Madison College to further my education.

HOW HAS RUBIN FOR KIDS HELPED YOU MOVE CLOSER TO ACHIEVING YOUR DREAMS AND GOALS?

Rubin for Kids helped me by giving me a chance to go to college and take a load off my family.

HOW WOULD YOUR LIFE BE DIFFERENT IF RUBIN FOR KIDS WERE NEVER A PART OF IT?

I feel that I would have to work more to cover the tuition costs.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK AND / OR SCHOOL?

I like to hang out with family and friends. Also play soccer on a competitive level.

HOW WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO ACHIEVE THEIR DREAMS AND GOALS?

I would encourage others by telling them to be the best version of yourself and staying positive will push you closer to achieve your goals and dreams.

Arianna Hotchkiss-Perez

BESIDES GOING TO SCHOOL, WHAT DO YOU DO?

Besides going to school, I go to work right after to keep myself productive.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS AND DREAMS?

My future goals and dreams are to be financially stable, own a home, and to obtain an degree in the medical field.

WHAT ACTIVITY DID RUBIN’S FOR KIDS HELP YOU DO? WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM DOING IT?

Rubin for Kids is helping me achieve my goals by giving me money to start my journey in college.

HOW HAS RUBIN FOR KIDS HELPED YOU MOVE CLOSER TO ACHIEVING YOUR DREAMS AND GOALS?

Rubin for Kids helped me gain confidence to get through the struggles of worrying about how to pay for college.

HOW WOULD YOUR LIFE BE DIFFERENT IF RUBIN FOR KIDS WERE NEVER A PART OF IT?

I feel that would not be able to afford to attend college for the fall semester.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK AND / OR SCHOOL?

I enjoy playing with kids and helping my brother Andre learn.

HOW WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO ACHIEVE THEIR DREAMS AND GOALS?

Don’t become a victim of your situation. Everyone is born with the same intelligence, just have different situations.

Isatou Jeng

Besides going to school, what do you do?

Besides going to school, I work at a Home Care Facility.

What are your future goals and dreams?

My future goal is to have a Master’s Degree in Political Science and International Relations.

What activity did Rubin’s for Kids help you do? What did you learn from doing it?

Rubin for Kids is helping me achieve my goals by give me a scholarship to earn my first degree.

How has Rubin for Kids helped you move closer to achieving your dreams and goals?

My plan is to attain a Master’s Degree, so Rubin for Kids will help me get through my first two years of college without any financial problems.

How would your life be different if Rubin for Kids were never a part of it?

I’d probably would have to work more to be able to pay for college expenses which will take away a lot of my focus from school.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and / or school?

Spending time with loved ones and engage with helping others.

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals?

I would encourage others to stay focus and work very hard to attain their goal.

Besides going to school, what do you do?

I work part time job to help my family with the bills.

What are your future dreams and goals?

My future dream is getting my Master’s in computer science.

What activity did Rubin for Kids help you to do? What did you learn from doing it?

It helped me to play soccer, and not worry about paying a lot of money for college. I learned that there is always help.

How has Rubin for Kids helped you to move closer to achieving your dreams and goals?

It helped me move closer to my dream because it’s going to help me pay for college.

How would your life be different if Rubin for Kids were never a part of it?

I think it would be a disaster because there is very little options for paying for college.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school?

I like to play soccer, and spend time with my family.

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals?

I would tell them to never give up, there is always people that care.

Kasey Tecuanhuehue

Besides going to school, what do you do?

Besides going to school, I work at McDonald's. At the beginning of the semester, I also worked with MSCR (Madison School & Community Recreation) at Sherman Middle School. I also volunteered through the Volunteer Center at Madison College.

What are your future dreams and goals?

My goal is to complete my two-year program at Madison College and so I can achieve my dream of becoming a dental hygienist.

What activity did Rubin for Kids help you to do? What did you learn from doing it?

Rubin for Kids gave me a scholarship to attend Madison College. This taught me to communicate better with others, which helped me a lot with communicating with my teachers. This helped me when I didn’t understand something, and I needed clarification.

How has Rubin for Kids helped you to move closer to achieving your dreams and goals?

Rubin for Kids helped me move closer to my dreams by giving me money that helped me get started with classes at Madison College. I didn’t have enough money to pay for my first semester of classes, and Rubin for Kids covered this. I just had to pay for my books and notebooks for each of the classes.

How would your life be different if Rubin for Kids were never a part of it?

I believe that if Rubin for Kids wasn't part of my education, I would have been stuck trying to figure out things by myself. I would not have had any information about how to start off college classes. I would also be struggling financial to pay for my first semester.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school?

My favorite thing to do outside of school and work is going outside and being active.

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals?

I would encourage others to achieve their dreams by letting them know that anything is possible if they put their minds to it. Finding a program like Rubin for Kids can really help you get started with the college life.

MARIAClARA OLIVER

Besides going to school, what do you do?

Besides school, I work as a full time Resident Care Technician. I provide daily care to individuals who have intellectual disabilities and promote a positive living environment for them.

What are your future dreams and goals?

I want to continue school and get my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. My goal is to become a psychiatric nurse and help those in need.

What activity did Rubin for Kids help you to do? What did you learn from doing it?

It helped me attend Madison College and take courses related to the degree I want to pursue. I learned more about psychology and how the body and mind work together. I was also able to learn about social issues and current news and problems.

How has Rubin for Kids helped you to move closer to achieving your dreams and goals?

It has helped me by providing financial assistance and allowing me to continue with my college education.

How would your life be different if Rubin for Kids were never a part of it?

I would have not been able to afford school and it would have taken me longer to continue my education.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school?

I like taking pictures. I’ve been doing photography as a hobby for a few years now. I like to show how I see the things around me and how I view life though my pictures.

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals?

I would encourage them by being an example and support them in anything they do.

VERA NAPUTI

What is your current occupation?

I teach 6th and 7th grade at Sherman Middle School. I teach English/language arts, social studies, and special education.

How did you learn about Rubin for Kids?

I have been nominating students for a long time. In 2008 or 2009, my students and I were looking for ways to fund a student service trip to New Orleans. One of the staff members mentioned RFKs to me. My students and I filled out the applications together. RFK helped fund around 30 students to go on the weeklong trip. Ever since, I have been nominating students.

Why did you choose to nominate the student(s) that you nominated?

Many of the students at Sherman Middle school are on free and reduced lunch and come from low socioeconomic backgrounds. I pick students from this population who have shown that they want to pursue an activity, and who I believe will be dedicated to learning from the experience. Many of the students actually work with me to fill out the nominations.

How has/have the Rubin for Kids award affected the student(s) you nominated? How has/have the nomination(s) you’ve made to Rubin for Kids affected you?

RFKs has helped many of my students. I have nominated students who received scholarships for art classes, rock climbing club, and field trips. We went on class field trips to the Milwaukee Art Museum, the Shed Aquarium, and the Planetarium. For many of the students this was their first time traveling out of Madison. The students were very appreciative for the learning experiences and grew not only as students, but as members of the community.

One student in particular comes to mind. I nominated an 8th grade girl for an art class. RFKs awarded her a scholarship. The artist of the studio liked her energy and work ethic and decided to allow her to volunteer in the studio after her scholarship expired so she could continue to take art classes. She continued taking classes for over a year. The classes were very expensive, and her family would not have been able to afford them.

I am very grateful to RFKs for helping my students. Many of the students live lives full of instability and have to overcome numerous struggles at home. The RFK awards give them the ability to participate in something and feel included in the community. This helps the students both academically and socially and helps them to grow as young adults.

Would you encourage others to nominate students for Rubin for Kids awards? Why or Why not?

I have told several other staff members about RFKs. As I am filing out nominations, I always think about other students who would benefit from the RFKs scholarships. The scholarships really make a difference in students’ lives.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?

I enjoy spending time with my family and being outdoors. One of my hobbies is rock climbing.

Chynna McNair

Besides going to school, what do you do?

I work with kids at MSCR. I help students who struggle in math and literacy and try to find fun ways to help them master the material.

What are your future dreams and goals?

My goal is to be a successful student, graduate, and get a job that I enjoy. I want to work at a job where I can support kids who struggle and show them that with the right path and mindset you can make it. The quote “choose a job you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life” is 100% possible and is what I hope to achieve.

What activity did Rubin for Kids help you to do? What did you learn from doing it?

Rubin for Kids gave me a scholarship to attend Madison College. This is helping me pay for classes, which will allow me to reach my goals.

How has Rubin for Kids helped you to move closer to achieving your dreams and goals?

Rubin for Kids has helped me to continue school. I was worried about the financial aspect of college. Rubin for Kids helped me focus on school and studying instead of working constantly to pay tuition.

How would your life be different if Rubin for Kids were never a part of it?

If Rubin for Kids never helped me, it would have been difficult for me to continue my education past high school. I would have been stressing a lot over debt. I would be in a completely different and less positive mindset than I am now.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school?

I like to help out with my family. It has been a tough year as my great grandpa moved into my home after my great grandma died. I am trying to help him with this transition and make him as comfortable as possible.

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals?

I would tell them to dream big and make little goals along the way to achieve the big dream. Once you get there you’ll never feel a better feeling. No dream is too big!

Chaya Miller

Besides going to school, what do you do?

I work at a restaurant and babysit. I also pick up shifts at My Escape Mission when I have spare time.

What are your future dreams and goals?

My ultimate goal is to become a pediatric nurse. I love kids and have always dreamed of becoming a pediatric nurse. To accomplish this goal, I have set smaller goals for myself along the way. I am getting certified as an EMT and hope to get a job as an EMT for this summer. I am also completing my prerequisites at Madison College and I hope to later transfer to a four-year college to complete my degree.

What activity did Rubin for Kids help you to do? What did you learn from doing it?

Rubin for Kids helped me attend Madison College. I have learned to make use of the resources that are available. For instance, Madison College has a really good writing center which I am taking advantage of to improve my writing. They also have advisors who can help you with whatever you want to do. I am also learning a lot on my classes.

How has Rubin for Kids helped you to move closer to achieving your dreams and goals?

Rubin for Kids is helping move towards my dream of being a pediatric nurse. I am completing classes at Madison College that I will need for my degree.

How would your life be different if Rubin for Kids were never a part of it?

If it wasn’t for Rubin for Kids, I would not be attending college. Due to financial strains I was not planning to go past high school with my education. Rubin for Kids allowed me to continue my education and is helping me to follow my dreams. I am extremely grateful for what they have done for me.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work and/or school?

Right now, I am very busy with school and work, so I do not have much free time. When I do have more time, I love to travel. I enjoy exploring new places and meeting new people.

How would you encourage others to achieve their dreams and goals?

I would tell them to make a plan, and see it through. You can do whatever you put your mind to. All you have to do is motivate yourself and keep working towards your goals.

Laura Voegeli

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT OCCUPATION?

I am a third-year law student at the University of Wisconsin Law School.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK?

I love to go alpine skiing with my family and friends.

HOW DID YOU LEARN ABOUT RUBIN FOR KIDS?

During my senior year of college, I decided I wanted to spend some of my time volunteering. I began searching for organizations that help those in need. I was attracted to RFKs because it rewarded children who were working hard at school, yet often did not have the resources to achieve their goals. Coming from a family of educators, I know that many children want to succeed, but often the circumstances they are born into place numerous barriers in their path to success.

HOW DID YOU BECOME A VOLUNTEER?

I contacted Barb Rubin and told her that I was very interested in RFK and the work they do. Barb and I talked about projects that would help propel the organization forward.

WHAT DO YOU DO AS AN RFK VOLUNTEER?

I work on two projects for RFK. My first project is donor recruitment. I go through the numerous thank you notes that students and teachers have written and put them into a scrapbook, so donors can see firsthand how their donations have affected the lives of children in the Madison area. My other project is mentoring students who receive scholarships to attend MATC. Each year I meet with a student and talk to them about their goals, setting up their schedule, and tips to succeed in college. I communicate with the student throughout their first year at MATC to answer any questions they may have and help keep them on track for graduation.

HOW HAS YOUR WORK WITH RUBIN FOR KIDS AFFECTED YOU?

My work with RFKs has shown me the difference a small donation can make in a child’s life. There are such a variety of scholarships, including dance lessons, money for sports, driver’s education, field trips, and college. These scholarships have improved self-esteem and behavior, and helped the students to feel included in the classroom community. The MATC scholarships have allowed many first-generation college students to pursue their dream careers.

WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO VOLUNTEER FOR RUBIN FOR KIDS? WHY OR WHY NOT?

I would definitely encourage others to volunteer with RFKs. I love being able to contribute to an organization that helps the youth in our community and pushes them to achieve their goals. For many children, providing a little help when they are young can keep them in school and away from the juvenile justice system. Many children want to succeed, but they need someone who believes in them. A little help can go a long ways. This is the help that RFKs provides.

Lyja Miles

WHAT DO YOU DO FOR A LIVING?

I’m currently in the Police Academy with the Madison Police Department as a Madison Police Officer.

HOW DID RUBIN FOR KIDS HELP YOU ACHIEVE THAT?

RFK helped me by providing me with a scholarship to MATC that helped me transfer credits to Concordia University where I’m obtaining my Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice. Also, they’ve encouraged me and have been a positive influence over the past 11 years.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE DREAMS AND GOALS?

My passion in life is providing support and guidance for youth. I want to become a neighborhood officer so I can work in one on one settings with children and communities that could use a positive role model who understands their struggles.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK?

I enjoy playing with the kids in the neighborhood (water balloon fights, movies, etc.) I also enjoy spending time with my family, relaxing and watching movies.

HOW WOULD YOUR LIFE HAVE BEEN DIFFERENT IF RUBIN FOR KIDS WERE NEVER PART OF IT?

The college scholarship allowed me to focus my initial college career instead of focusing on the financial aspect of schooling. This allowed for me to spend more time studying and thinking of how to achieve my career goals.

Jainba Joof

WHAT DO YOU DO FOR A LIVING?

Currently, I'm working part time at the North side Willy Street Coop.

HOW DID RUBIN FOR KIDS HELP YOU ACHIEVE THAT?

Working at Willy Street Coop is not something I want to do for the rest of my life. I have a dream, and my dream is to become an accountant someday which RfK (Rubin for Kids) is helping in pursing my dream by giving me a scholarship to Madison College.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE DREAMS AND GOALS?

Being an accountant has always been my aspiration which I think is because I love working with numbers.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK?

I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, watching movies and having a good time. I also enjoy doing volunteering services and helping children work on their homework.

HOW WOULD YOUR LIFE HAVE BEEN DIFFERENT IF RUBIN FOR KIDS WERE NEVER PART OF IT?

Rubin for Kids made me worry less about financial issues and focus more on my studies by providing me with a scholarship. This allowed me spent more time achieving my career goal because Rubin for Kids got my back. Thank you Rubin for Kids.

KAROLYN GUERRERO

BESIDES GOING TO SCHOOL, WHAT DO YOU DO?

BESIDES GOING TO SCHOOL, I WORK AT WALMART AND I’M INVOLVED IN A PROGRAM AT THE MADISON POLICE DEPARTMENT CALLED “POST 911”.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS AND DREAMS?

ONE DAY I HOPE TO BECOME A POLICE OFFICER.

HOW HAS RUBIN FOR KIDS HELPED YOU MOVE CLOSER TO ACHIEVING OUR DREAMS AND GOALS?

RUBIN FOR KIDS HELPED ME BY PROVIDING A SCHOLARSHIP FOR COLLEGE.

HOW WOULD YOUR LIFE BE DIFFERENT IF RUBIN FOR KIDS WERE NEVER A PART OF IT?

IF RUBIN WERE NEVER IN MY LIFE, I WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO AFFORD COLLEGE FOR MY OWN.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK AND / OR SCHOOL?

THE FAVORITE THING TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK AND SCHOOL IS ATTENDING THE “POST 911” PROGRAM BECAUSE I LEARN NEW THINGS, THINGS THAT WILL HELP ME REACT CALM IN CHALLENGING SITUATIONS.

HOW WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO ACHIEVE THEIR DREAMS AND GOALS?

I WOULD ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO DO WHATEVER YOUR PASSIONATE ABOUT, LOOK FOR OPPORTUNITIES YOURSELF BECAUSE NO ONE WILL HELP IF YOU DON’T ASK AND NEVER GIVE UP. GREAT THINGS TAKE TIME.

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