Congratulations to Avani, 12, from California – the U.S. Navy WINNER of OMK’s Courageous Kids of 2021 Contest sponsored by Navy Federal Credit Union!

“Avani has shown amazing resilience and determination despite the many transitions and obstacles we faced during her 2020-2021 school year,” said her mother, a combat-wounded U.S. Navy Veteran in recovery. “While consumed by PTSD and grief, we became homeless in 2020. On the road to seek assistance and recovery, we transitioned into a home for female Veterans and children, where Avani was an excellent role model for her younger sister and the other children in the community.

“After we became permanently housed, Avani began her last year of elementary at a new school. While online during the pandemic, she woke up each morning eager to learn and get involved in class discussions. She maintained excellent grades and received several awards, including Husky Scholar Pride, Principal’s Honor Roll, and the President’s Education Awards Program for Outstanding Academic Excellence. She has gone on to enter a whole new world and is already conquering her first year of middle school. Avani tried out for the volleyball team and didn’t make it, but determined to be a part of the team, she asked the coach if she could be the assistant team manager and she agreed.

Avani took so much pride in her job, watching the girls as she went to every game, assisting the coach in keeping score, retrieving the balls, and practicing with the team. Avani felt it was the best of both worlds and it would be great for her in the future, and she’s right. Thank you so much to Our Military Kids and all those who contribute to the wonderful gift of appreciation to us Veterans and my military kids — and especially Avani, for her commitment to excellence and reaching her goals despite life’s obstacles and setbacks all while maintaining a positive attitude and outlook on life with love in her heart for her friends, family, teachers, and community.”

Avani and her sister Nai’ri have each received OurMilitaryKids grants for gymnastics and volleyball during their mother’s recovery from combat-related injuries. Thank you, Avani + family, for your service!