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A Gift I Can't Afford To Accept

Dustin Lautenbach Start Date: Jan 8, 2026 - End Date: May 7, 2026
  • Riverside, CA, United States of America

My Travel Story

by: Dustin Lautenbach Start Date: Jan 8, 2026 - End Date: May 7, 2026
Over the last year, I took a leap of faith and started my own handyman business. I work constantly—long days, unpredictable hours—trying to build something honest while keeping my rates fair for people and still surviving under the weight of a mortgage and rising bills.

Starting a business comes with risks I didn’t fully anticipate. I had to invest in insurance just to secure clients, and while many people have been supportive, I’ve also experienced the harder side—customers threatening bad reviews in hopes of receiving free services. It’s been exhausting, but I keep going.

While catching up with a lifelong friend who lives in Riverside, California, he surprised me with an incredibly generous gift: a plane ticket to visit him this February. I was shocked and deeply grateful. It meant more than I can explain.

The truth is, I could really use a break.

But as a small business owner, there’s no paid time off. Taking time away means falling behind on my mortgage, bills, and responsibilities I can’t afford to neglect. As much as I want to accept this gift, I simply can’t do it without help.

On top of everything else, a meaningful portion of my income goes toward animal welfare and local trap-and-release efforts. Supporting animals in need is part of who I am, even when money is tight.

I’m asking for help covering the gap so I can take this short trip without risking the stability I’ve worked so hard to build. This isn’t about luxury—it’s about rest, perspective, and returning home stronger.

If you’re able to help, even a little, thank you. And if you can’t, I’m grateful you took the time to read my story.

  • Riverside, CA, United States of America

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