Teen Volunteer is Changing How Communities Think About Skin Cancer

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

Medha Kollepara is the founder and executive director of Project Prevent UV, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing sun safety and skin cancer awareness across the United States. Inspired by watching family members and friends battle skin cancer in her home state of Florida, Medha transformed personal concern into national action. She developed educational lessons for elementary and middle school students, organized community outreach, built a nationwide network of ambassadors and forged corporate partnerships to expand the organization’s reach. Today, Project Prevent UV is also advocating for stronger sun safety policies, increased funding for melanoma research and greater protections for outdoor workers, helping communities take a more proactive approach to preventing skin cancer. 

Every voice holds immense value, and I hope my advocacy inspires others to speak up for what they truly believe in

For Medha, meaningful change begins with taking the first step. She encourages others to pursue the causes they care about before they feel completely prepared, knowing that small actions can grow into lasting impact. From cold-calling melanoma survivors to meeting with local officials, she built her organization one conversation at a time. Through her leadership, Medha is proving that advocacy starts with a single voice—and that persistence can turn “baby steps” into meaningful change. 

Watch the video below to hear more about Medha’s volunteer journey in her own words.

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