Service Through Connection

Meet Daily Point of Light Award honoree Evan Johnson. Read his story, and nominate an outstanding volunteer or family as a Daily Point of Light.

Evan Johnson is the founder and executive director of Ivan the Angelfish, a nonprofit that brings custom aquariums to senior living communities to support mental well-being and reduce isolation. Inspired by the calming effect an aquarium had on his grandfather, a Soviet-Afghan War veteran living with PTSD, Evan set out to replicate that experience for older adults everywhere. In just a year and a half, he has led more than 50 volunteers, installed over 30 aquariums in senior care facilities around the world and built lasting partnerships by returning every two weeks to maintain the tanks and spend time with residents. For Evan, creating impact means showing up consistently, not just once.

Evan believes meaningful service starts with a passion that is simple, sustainable and rooted in a real community need. He encourages others to begin with what they love, stay open to learning and commit to showing up over time. While aquariums may seem like an unexpected tool for connection, he has seen them become gathering places where residents build relationships and find joy. Through Ivan the Angelfish, Evan is demonstrating that small, consistent acts of care can spark lasting change.

Learn about Evan’s volunteer journey in his own words:

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