Jonathan Cervantes needs help to go on trip

Jonathan Cervantes, a freshman at Santa Paula High School, has been invited to participate in the People to People Student Ambassador trip to Australia and New Zealand in June. The Student Ambassadors will be visiting schools, government offices, and a crocodile farm, as well as participating in kangaroo spotting, sheep shearing, and a ceremonial feast with the Maori people. People to People began in 1956 as an effort to bring citizens from across the world together to work toward world peace. The organization was started by President Eisenhower and the U.S. State Department, and later became a private foundation.There are 32 students from Ventura and Santa Barbara counties participating in the program this year. Jonathan is the only Santa Paula High School student participating.The cost of Jonathan’s trip is $5,000. He is planning some fundraisers with the help of his family. Assistance from the community would be greatly appreciated. Donations may be sent to Santa Clara Valley Bank, 901 E. Main St., Attention Jonathan Cervantes People to People Ambassador Fund. Fundraising must be completed by March 31st.Jonathan is an honors student, carrying a 4.35 GPA. He is involved in band, Science Club, and choir. Jonathan received accolades for academics and band while attending Isbell Middle School. He also sings at Valley Community Foursquare Church.