Youth Volunteer’s Compassionate Service for Cancer Patients

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

Elizabeth Hong is a junior in high school, but is already living her life prioritizing empathy in action. With over 200 hours of service at her local Northside Hospital, she has earned admiration for her maturity, thoughtfulness and ability to connect deeply with patients. From preparing for complex medical procedures to ensuring patients receive the little comforts—like water at the right temperature—Elizabeth approaches every task with care. As a bonus, her fluency in multiple languages, including French, Mandarin and Spanish, has made her an invaluable bridge between patients and providers, ensuring that every voice is heard and understood.

One moment that defined her impact occurred when she stepped in to translate for a French-speaking Parkinson’s patient, whose voice was too weak to be understood by a remote interpreter. Elizabeth’s calm presence and clear communication ensured the session continued smoothly, bringing dignity and reassurance to the patient. This attention to human connection is central to everything she does, whether assisting during Modified Barium Swallow Studies or simply asking the right questions to make patients more comfortable.

Outside the hospital, Elizabeth extends her compassion to the broader community through a local food bank that serves immigrant families. She helps non-English-speaking clients navigate complex systems, from food distribution processes to essential services. Her presence transforms what could be a confusing and intimidating experience into one marked by kindness and clarity. In both settings, Elizabeth’s work reflects a rare combination of cultural competency, emotional intelligence and service-minded leadership.

Through Project Grace, Elizabeth has additionally supported more than 500 cancer patients through donations, and continues to champion accessibility and inclusion. Her efforts are not only improving outcomes for individuals but also inspiring those around her to serve with more heart and intentionality. Read on to hear more about how this youth volunteer is changing lives in powerful ways.

Tell us about your volunteer roles.

I volunteer regularly at local hospitals, Red Cross blood centers and food banks. I first started as a follower, simply tagging along with my dad who introduced me to the world of volunteering. Over time, I’ve come to feel genuinely grateful and happy when helping others and it has grown into an important part of my life.

This year, I was honored to receive the Congressional Award for community service. I found Project Grace, a volunteer initiative providing care packages and support to cancer patients at a local Hospital. I organize donations, assemble packages with comforting items and help with patient needs such as translation and transportation, aiming to bring care and encouragement during difficult times.

Why are these issues so important to you?

Cancer has deeply affected my family. My grandmother passed away from lymphoma, and my father was treated for lymphoma on his eyelid. Seeing the physical and emotional struggles they faced showed me how vital emotional support and small acts of kindness can be for patients. It’s important to me to pay it forward and help others going through similar battles by providing a sense of warmth and community.

What inspired you to get started with this initiative?

I wanted to create a way to support cancer patients beyond traditional volunteering roles. After seeing firsthand the challenges patients face during treatment, I realized that small comforts can make a big difference. Inspired by my family’s experiences and my ongoing internship and volunteer work at the local hospital, I launched Project Grace to bring personalized care packages and encouragement to patients.

What are your long-term plans or goals for Project Grace?

I hope to expand Project Grace to include more hospitals and reach a wider range of patients. My goal is to build a sustainable volunteer network that can regularly deliver these care packages while raising awareness about the importance of emotional support in cancer treatment. I also want to partner with local schools and community groups to involve more people in this cause.

What’s been the most rewarding part of your work?

The most rewarding part has been hearing how much the care packages brighten patients’ days. Knowing that something as simple as a pair of cozy socks or a handwritten note can bring comfort and remind someone they are not alone is incredibly meaningful. It’s humbling to see the direct impact of this work and to connect with patients on a personal level.

What have you learned through your experiences volunteering?

Volunteering has taught me patience, empathy and the power of small gestures. I’ve learned that sometimes listening and being present can be as important as any physical help. It has also shown me how teamwork and community involvement amplify the impact of any initiative.

Why is it important for others to get involved with causes they care about?

Getting involved creates real change, no matter how small your role seems. It connects you with others who share your passion and helps build a stronger, more compassionate community. When people contribute their time and talents, they can make a lasting difference not just for those they serve, but for themselves as well.

Any advice for people who want to start volunteering?

Start small and find something you genuinely care about. Volunteering doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Even little actions add up. Listen to the needs of your community and don’t be afraid to take initiative. Remember, your passion and commitment matter most, and your efforts will inspire others too.

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