As America comes together to celebrate Thanksgiving, we are reminded not just of the holiday’s origins with the Pilgrims, but of the enduring significance of grace and gratitude—values that are the foundation of Unlad’s journey. For us, Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on our beginnings as a not-for-profit established in Virginia in November 2019, committed to expanding educational opportunities for underserved youth. Each year, we look back with appreciation for the grace that enabled Unlad to take root and grow.
Grace has guided Unlad from its founding, shaping our path through the generosity, support, and opportunities we have received. Our collaborations with administrators and teachers at Baruyan Elementary School (BES) have been central to the development and success of our programs.
Our gratitude runs deep—for the inspiration that started our mission, the dedication of the BES principal, teachers, staff, and volunteers, the encouragement from parents and community leaders, and especially the perseverance of our students who, despite challenges, continue to pursue their education.
This spirit of gratitude is woven through all we do, reminding us that every achievement is a result of collective effort and unwavering community support. Thanksgiving prompts us to recognize these blessings and recommit to grace and gratitude as the driving force in our work.
In 2025-26, we continue to see the fruits of this journey: our programs in sports, arts, and writing are building skills and confidence: participants are winning and bringing home medals and trophies from school meets and competitions. Our library and nutrition initiatives are improving literacy and lowering truancy. Each milestone reaffirms the interconnected roles of grace, which opens doors, and gratitude, which motivates us to celebrate progress and give back.
As we mark Thanksgiving, we honor the grace that has illuminated our path and the gratitude that inspires us to continue our mission. These values shape our past, sustain our present, and guide our future at Unlad—reminding us to move forward with humility, strength, and a shared commitment to making a difference.