From Mentorship to Advocacy: A Local Leader’s Blueprint for Change

Content Warning: Points of Light is proud to share the following uplifting and inspiring story. However, we acknowledge that it may be difficult for some readers. We encourage you to please care for your own well-being above all. 

Meet Daily Point of Light Award honoree Sydney Houlemard. Read her story, and nominate an outstanding volunteer or family as a Daily Point of Light. 

Sydney Houlemard is not just a volunteer—she is a changemaker, a mentor and a fierce advocate for a stronger New Orleans. Over the past two years, she has poured her time, energy and heart into building opportunities for others through leadership development and compassionate service. As a project leader for the Young Leadership Council (YLC), Sydney is helping shape the city’s future by fostering its next generation of civic leaders. 

In her role with the YLC’s leadership development series, Sydney does more than just show up—she drives the entire initiative. From recruiting influential speakers to securing venues and facilitating workshops, she is the engine behind the program’s success. Her attention to detail and passion for youth opportunity have created a space where young professionals can grow, lead and inspire others in turn. 

“A lot of people think that getting involved looks like a monetary donation, but being able to give my heart and time is priceless,” Sydney reflects of her volunteerism. “Pouring into others is meaningful to me. So many people have and still pour into me. I could not imagine not doing the same for others.” 

Sydney’s leadership is not confined to boardrooms and event halls. She also volunteers with Son of a Saint, a transformative organization dedicated to mentoring boys growing up without fathers. Through this work, she offers guidance and emotional support to young men who are navigating complex life challenges—many of whom find in Sydney a trusted mentor and role model.

But it doesn’t stop there. In her professional capacity, Sydney serves with the Special Victims Unit (SVU) at the DA’s office and the Greater New Orleans Human Trafficking Task Force (GNOHTTF). Whether she’s managing projects, leading community engagement or coordinating with other agencies, Sydney works to support and advocate for survivors of sexual assault and human trafficking. Her commitment to these vulnerable communities speaks volumes about her character and values. 

“The most rewarding part of this work is that I’m able to build relationships I wouldn’t have otherwise had and I get to be a part of others’ journeys, which is cool,” Sydney says. 

What sets Sydney apart is her ability to weave empathy into every aspect of her service. She understands that leadership is not just about influence—it’s about listening, learning and lifting others up. Whether she’s mentoring youth or supporting survivors, Sydney brings the same passion, poise and determination to every cause she embraces. 

Her work with YLC has a ripple effect. By organizing high-impact leadership events and workshops, she’s inspiring young professionals to get involved, make change and pay it forward. The program’s success is a direct reflection of Sydney’s behind-the-scenes dedication—ensuring every detail, from budgets to breakout sessions, aligns with the mission of growing engaged and informed civic leaders. 

Her advice to those wanting to volunteer? “The best thing to do is to look in your community and see what organizations exist, and then from there check out the websites of the ones that seem to align with your values. See what events are coming up or sign up for their newsletters. This allows you to see what they have going and attend an event. If you’re nervous, bring a friend with you! You can also reach out to them and see if they need volunteers, which usually they do, and try it out. Either way, it starts with you.” 

Through her service, Sydney exemplifies the idea that real leadership means showing up consistently, even when no one’s watching. Whether she’s mentoring a boy through Son of a Saint or helping a woman find the courage to rebuild after trauma, Sydney’s actions echo a powerful message: community starts with care. 

Sydney Houlemard’s volunteerism is a masterclass in intentional impact. With grace and grit, she’s transforming lives across New Orleans, proving that when you lead with heart, real change follows. 

Do you want to make a difference in your community like Sydney? Find local volunteer opportunities.