Milestone Story: Gabby’s Journey from Adversity to Achievement

When Gabriella “Gabby*” entered an AFS resource family’s care three years ago, life looked uncertain. At just 15, she carried the heavy impact of growing up in a single-parent household marked by extreme abuse. Socially withdrawn, struggling academically, and carrying deep emotional wounds, Gabby faced an uphill climb.

With steady encouragement from her AFS resource parents, Gabby began to rebuild. She embraced counseling, leaned into tutoring, and committed herself to long hours of study. Slowly, confidence and connection replaced fear and isolation.

Now 18 and having graduated high school in June, Gabby has achieved something extraordinary: this fall she will start at UC Davis to study biology, a dream made possible through perseverance, hard work, and the unwavering support of her AFS family. Gabby also entered care alongside her younger sister, who continues to face her own challenges. While Gabby works to maintain their bond, she is learning to accept that her sister’s path will unfold at its own pace.