Recipient - Chandler, Arizona
David Kirkland is an inspiring survivor who chooses to put others’ needs ahead of his own. He lost his father in a drunk-driving accident when he was two months old, so David has been a huge support to his mother, who is legally blind, and younger brother while growing up. After graduating from high school, he worked nights at a restaurant and attended community college. After winning the Paying It Forward scholarship, David transferred his credits to University of Phoenix and is pursuing a career in investment banking. Although David is financially independent and was living on his own, he has moved back home to help care for his mother and 12-year-old brother. His stepfather could not find construction work near home due to the current recession, so he had no choice but to accept a superintendent job in Texas to provide for his family.