u/Dakotasdad2

Alright dads, I need your help.

This little cowboy is 10 years old, and in those 10 years he’s lived in 5 different states and moved 9 times. I’ve left every job I’ve had over the years to continue following him and remain part of his life. It took me years, attorneys, persistence, and even a blood test just to secure copies of his birth records and continue fighting to be the father he deserves to have.

Through all of it, Dakota has grown into an incredible kid. I’ve had the honor of being his Scout leader for the past 5 years, watching him grow into a respectful young man who loves the outdoors and dreams of one day becoming a wildland firefighter.

I’m not asking for money. I’m not asking for food. I’m simply asking for 30 seconds of your time to help support a father trying to earn his son a legitimate shot at a $20,000 scholarship for his future education.

Dakota has already advanced into the Quarterfinals of a nationwide competition, and every free vote truly matters as the contest resets for this next phase.

The details are below:

https://jr-ranger.org/2026/dakota-8ccc

Dakota has officially made the Top 5, and we want to sincerely thank everyone for the incredible outreach from friends, family, and the community. The support, encouragement, and time people have given to vote has meant more than we can express.

This contest began with 1,536 groups, each starting with 45 competitors — an estimated 69,120 contestants nationwide. Through multiple elimination rounds, the competition has now narrowed to just 5 contestants remaining in each group, leaving approximately 7,680 competitors still standing nationwide.

Within his own group, Dakota has advanced from 45 competitors down to the Top 5, outlasting 40 contestants and placing him in the top 11.1% of his original field. Statistically, reaching this stage carried only about a 1 in 9 chance.

At this point in the competition, previous vote totals are reset as contestants move into the next phase. Dakota keeps the position he earned, but the process begins again as the remaining top competitors continue forward. Voting remains a daily opportunity through approximately June 15th, with additional phases still ahead.

To everyone who has followed along, voted, shared, or supported Dakota along the way — thank you. Your participation has truly made a difference, and it has been deeply appreciated.

All votes remain free to cast for anyone who would still like to continue supporting him as the contest moves forwahttps://jr-ranger.org/2026/dakota-8ccc