Meet Lucy Taylor – an inspiring young woman with dreams that reach far beyond her hometown! Now 19 and a freshman at Maple Valley Community College in Bend, Oregon, Lucy has grown up in our charming town and has never traveled outside of Oregon. Raised by her single father, she learned early on the importance of hard work, big dreams, and unwavering hope.

Lucy’s aspiration is to travel to Japan. Her fascination began in middle school when her love for anime ignited a deep curiosity about Japanese culture. This interest blossomed into action: she started taking Japanese language lessons a year ago and began exploring avenues to experience the country firsthand. When she discovered that some students could travel abroad through exchange programs, she immediately connected with her advisor to learn how to make it happen.

With determination and courage, Lucy applied for a highly competitive Rotary Club exchange opportunity—only 12 students in the entire district would be selected for placements abroad. We are thrilled to announce that Lucy was chosen for Japan! This is the first major hurdle she has cleared through her initiative and dedication, but now she faces the second challenge: funding her trip.

Why Lucy Deserves This Opportunity

Lucy is incredibly excited to immerse herself in:

• Traditional Japanese architecture
• Local agriculture
• Cultural customs and traditions
• And of course, the amazing food

She is a thoughtful individual with a strong faith and active involvement in her local youth group. One of her favorite sayings is, “It is what it is,” capturing her resilience and steady spirit. At home, she loves spending time with her dog, Shadow—a playful mix of Husky and German Shepherd with strikingly different colored eyes, whom she lovingly describes as “adorably fierce.” Lucy appreciates growing up in Bend, especially its scenic beauty and close-knit community.

Two of her greatest passions are reading and learning, making this exchange program the perfect fit for her curious mind.

Let’s Get Lucy to Japan!

This will be Lucy’s first trip outside of Oregon, and it has the potential to significantly shape her future. With your support, she can seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and represent our community with curiosity, gratitude, and enthusiasm.

The local Rotary Club has generously provided this opportunity—let’s come together to help Lucy make her dream a reality. Let’s help her explore the world. Let’s help Lucy get to Japan!