The funeral service is a calling. I heard my name in the throws of this pandemic, and recently decided to persue a career as a funeral director, specializing in green burials and enviornmentally friendly practices. I am currently attending The American McAllister Academy for funeral service in New York City.
I am recieving chapter 35 benefits thanks to my step-father, a decorated war hero and surviving veteran of the United States Army Special Forces. While applying for school I was told that tuition was taken care of, and this turned out not to be the case. Anyone that has ever had to deal with the VA knows that the ins and outs can be hard to manage, and we made a financing mistake upon applying. Thankfully, I am applying for more aid but the money I already owe my school- $12,600.00, from this and last semester- is a balance I can not pay myself. All of the aid I am applying for will not cover back cost.
I am, and forever will be, an advocate for the planet. 30 million board feet of casket wood (some of which comes from tropical hardwoods), 90,000 tons of steel, 1.6 million tons of concrete for burial vaults, and 800,000 gallons of embalming fluid are used every year- and for what? The elaborate traditional funeral, that costs $10,000 or more, is no longer a realistic option. I want to help those before me lead our country into more sustainable, just as venerable practices that we can all feel good about. Before I can fight for the planet, I have to be lisenced. Starting from square one is my only option in New York State, and I will perservere.
With your help, I will push for a healthier, happier community that respects and honors their loved ones as well as the planet. Thank you for your consideration.
