Meet Daily Point of Light Award honoree Karen Levingston-Franklin. Read her story, and nominate an outstanding volunteer or family as a Daily Point of Light.
For more than 36 years, Karen Levingston-Franklin has shown up consistently, purposefully, and without pay, for young people who simply need someone to believe in them. As the volunteer CEO of the World Youth Foundation, she has helped grow a grassroots vision into an organization that has served over 85,000 youth and families, equipping underserved young people with digital skills, leadership development, character-building, and career pathways that prepare them to win in life against all odds.
Devoting 80 to 100 hours each month, often during evenings and weekends, Karen mentors students, cultivates community partnerships, and connects families with resources that too often fall through the cracks. Her greatest reward is watching the young people she serves grow into bold, successful adults — entrepreneurs, professionals, and community leaders who return to plant seeds for the next generation.
Karen believes that service is a two-way exchange that can shape a volunteer’s life. Her advice for anyone wanting to give volunteering a try? Start where you are, find a cause that connects with your heart, and let compassion become consistent action.
Do you want to make a difference in your community like Karen? Find local volunteer opportunities.