Meet Daily Point of Light Award honoree Olivia Nguyen. Read her story, and nominate an outstanding volunteer or family as a Daily Point of Light.
In 2018, following a major heart surgery, Olivia Nguyen found herself recovering at a Ronald McDonald House (RMH). The comfort and community she found there left a lasting impression, transforming a difficult medical recovery into a source of lifelong inspiration. Determined to contribute to the organization that supported her, Olivia started small by launching a soda tab drive at her school. What began as a student-led initiative quickly expanded into a hands-on commitment across her area, where she now works alongside her mother to prepare balanced, home-cooked meals and desserts from scratch for families whose children are currently receiving critical medical care.
Olivia’s volunteer work is as much about the heart as it is about the hustle. Each shift involves preparing recipes from scratch, packaging and labeling individual servings… all while maintaining a sterile, professional-grade kitchen environment. However, the most vital part of her service is the connection she makes with the families. By sharing her own history as a former RMH resident, she provides a sense of familiarity and hope to those currently in the thick of their own medical struggles.
Olivia’s dedication has created a domino effect within her community. She regularly recruits friends and family to join her in the kitchen. Through Olivia, these volunteers learn that RMH is about far more than just salty treats—though she’ll be the first to admit McDonald’s fries are still her favorite snack. Her efforts have turned a personal recovery story into a recruitment tool, inspiring those around her to see RMH as a vital pillar of support for families in need and motivating them to sign up for regular service shifts.
Looking toward the future, Olivia is transitioning from a volunteer in the kitchen to a lead ambassador for the RMH mission. She recently hosted a major donor, guiding them through the meal preparation process while demonstrating the tangible, real-world impact of their financial contributions. By collaborating with the RMH fundraising director, Olivia is exploring new ways to engage with donors and share her story on a larger stage. Read on to hear more of her inspiring story.
Olivia in a Chicago hospital for her heart surgery in 2019.
Tell us about your volunteer role.
I started by hosting a bottle cap drive in exchange for a pizza party at my old elementary school, because RMH collects those in exchange for funds too. I love helping with their facilities. As I got older and was able to volunteer more, I started contributing to the “Feed the House” program, where I would cook food for people and their families staying here. I would also connect with the families to offer support, empathy or just someone to talk to. I always make sure to bring in friends and family to volunteer with me to widen the circle and invite people to contribute to the Ronald McDonald cause.
What inspired you to get started with this initiative?
It originated from staying at RMH during the recovery from my heart surgery in Chicago. I learned about all the different programs they offered, and I knew that they really supported me during my stay. So I wanted to make sure that I could contribute to the community that helped me so much and provide other people who are now going through similar things with some support too. During my stay, they did everything, from providing food for us through their feeding programs, and they even offered me a toy drone that I could play with. They had a whole toy closet to help entertain the families.
Why is this issue so important to you?
I know from my experience staying a long time at a hospital, it really takes a toll on not only your physical but also your mental health. So by cooking for the families or just volunteering in any way, I hope that I can provide at least some relief and take something off their plate. I know how stressful those times can be, and I really want the families to just focus on their recovery.
What are your long-term plans or goals with volunteering?
Recently, I hosted a donor family to show them in-person where their donations were going. We worked alongside each other, and while doing so, I was able to share my story with them so that they could see firsthand the impact of their donations. Afterwards, I had a discussion with the director of fundraising at RMHC, where we talked about how we can further expand this work on a broader scale. And that led me to propose an ambassador-style program that could potentially increase donations.
Aside from that, I also want to help spread RMH’s mission to not only donors, but also friends, families and classmates, to increase the support they get and raise awareness for both their cause and the children struggling with their health.
What’s been the most rewarding part of your work?
It’s so rewarding getting to connect with the families and kids staying there and hearing their stories and, in turn, sharing mine. Because sharing those lived experiences heals me, and I hope it helps them to know that they’re also not alone.
Olivia cooking with her older sister at the Fairfax Hospital Ronald McDonald House.
What have you learned through your experiences volunteering?
Besides learning how to make interesting recipes, I’ve learned that although no one has the exact same experiences, there’s always a shoulder to lean on when you share your experience with others. Through learning about others and just listening and connecting, it provides both sides with so much insight and benefits that you can apply to your daily life even further.
Why is it important for others to get involved with causes they care about?
By volunteering and directly interacting with a person-supported cause, you not only help others, but you also learn about a diverse range of people’s experiences. You learn important, real-world lessons that you couldn’t learn by yourself.
Any advice for people who want to start volunteering?
I would just say to just do it, because it’s not only beneficial to the people you’re volunteering for, but also to you. And it can be as little or as big as you want it to be, from cooking meals at RMH to spreading awareness with close friends—so don’t let your hesitation hold you back.
Anything else want people to learn from your story?
I hope that they learn the importance of building and maintaining a good community, and that service is a two-way street. It’s important to find something you actually care about, rather than thinking of it as a chore. This mindset will help you to be more active, do better service and learn more. Which, in turn, has a more lasting impact on the community.
Meet Daily Point of Light Award honoree Tracy Wilson. Read her story, and nominate an outstanding volunteer or family as a Daily Point of Light.
Tracy Wilson has lived in many places and is an avid traveler. She’s brought her lifelong dedication to volunteering to each community she’s been a part of and has put in more than 5,600 hours over the last 20 years. So, when she and her family put down roots in Lodi, California, it was only a matter of time before she started leveraging her knowledge and experience to help others.
As a big sister and with a background in education, she’s always been drawn to work with youth. Over two years ago, Tracy joined the Greater Lodi Area Youth Commission as an adult advisor to guide high school students in implementing youth-focused programs that promote community engagement, personal development and volunteerism. The Commission creates pathways for their voices in city government while enabling them to address real community needs affecting their peers.
What inspires you to volunteer?
My faith has always been what drives me to help others. I grew up in Memphis and watched my grandmother feed and give to our community selflessly. My parents were always the first to help others in need. They instilled in me that we have a responsibility to lift others up wherever we are.
Tracy Wilson, adult advisor to the Greater Lodi Area Youth Commission, helps build and guide student leaders as they host events and service projects for their peers.
Tell us about your volunteer role with Greater Lodi Area Youth Commission.
The Commission brings together nine high school student commissioners from across the school district and six adult advisors to create safe, fun and meaningful opportunities for our youth. We guide them and give them the skillset to bring their vision to life.
Together, with local businesses and nonprofits, we fundraise for scholarships and various programs. We host the annual `Pigskin Fall Dance that brings over 800 young people together each year. And we participate in Love Lodi Day, a city-wide movement to champion volunteerism and doing good throughout our community with additional service projects throughout the year. For example, last year, our commission organized free swim lessons for teens, and this year we’re sponsoring a free CPR/AED/First Aid certification day.
I help young people understand budgeting, goal setting and stewardship, principles they can carry into their everyday lives that help build foundations for their future. My duties also include attending monthly meetings, facilitating discussions on youth issues and coordinating with city staff and community partners.
What inspired you to get started with this initiative?
When my family and I moved to Lodi, I knew I wanted to continue volunteering. I’ve always been passionate about empowering youth and helping communities build financial literacy. So, when I learned about the Greater Lodi Area Youth Commission, it felt like the perfect fit.
Serving on this commission also allows me to honor the legacy my grandmother and my parents gave me while helping shape the next generation of leaders. When young people have access to safe spaces, strong mentors and practical skills, they become the leaders their communities need.
When people at any age understand how to manage money, build businesses and create generational wealth, they gain the power to change their own circumstances and lift others up in the process. We’re not just changing individual lives; we’re reshaping the future of entire communities.
What’s been the most rewarding part of your work?
I love seeing their ideas come to fruition. They inspire other youth to get involved, and they start building bridges with organizations across our community. Watching them discover that they have the ability to create tangible impact is everything. We get to see our commissioners’ confidence and leadership skills improve over time and know we’re a part of that.
What have you learned through your experiences as a volunteer?
Young people are far more capable and insightful than we often give them credit for. When given the space and support, they bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that move our community forward.
I’ve learned how valuable it is when young people are exposed to different perspectives and ways of thinking and how important it is to listen to those we serve. Real change happens when we create opportunities for them to lead, not just participate. When they see themselves as change-makers, they rise to the occasion every single time. They inspire me.
Why is it important for others to get involved with causes they care about?
When we step up for causes we care about, we don’t just fill in the gaps in our community; we build connections. We inspire others to join us, and we create a culture where everyone can contribute, support and empower one another.
Any advice for people who want to start volunteering?
Start by thinking about what you’re passionate about and what skills or talents you can bring to the table. Look into local organizations that align with your values. Attend city council or town hall meetings to discover community needs or start something small in your own neighborhood. Don’t wait for the perfect opportunity. Start where you are with what you have.
The most important thing is to listen to those that you’re helping. Listen to what their needs are, what they care about and what their problems are. The world doesn’t need more spectators. It needs people willing to roll up their sleeves and do the work. And when you give your time and heart to a cause you care about, you will find that you receive far more than you ever give.
What do you want people to learn from your story?
Impact isn’t built overnight. It’s the cumulative power of showing up again and again over time. My hope is that my story reminds others to contribute, no matter how small it may seem. Your unique experiences and skills are all valuable gifts that can impact someone else’s life.
MATH IS AN IMPORTANT FACTOR IN THIS COLLEGE STUDENT’S VOLUNTEERISM
Meet Daily Point of Light Award honoree Skyler Perez. Read his story, and nominate an outstanding volunteer or family as a Daily Point of Light.
Skyler Perez didn’t always love mathematics, but the power of volunteering got him there. Growing up in New York, Skyler wasn’t a huge fan of learning math in school and found the subject “annoying.” Around the age of 8 or 9, he was introduced to the National Museum of Mathematics, an award-winning museum that highlights the role of mathematics in illuminating the patterns and structures all around us. Suddenly, his perspective on the subject of math changed. He began to see it from a different perspective and came to love the subject.
By the time he was a high school senior, Skyler saw that the museum was accepting applications for volunteers. He applied and got in, and for the last two years, he has dedicated over 1,000 total hours to helping hundreds of visitors each day. Skyler’s tasks can range from hosting interactive exhibits and supporting educational programming to helping facilitate special events and ensuring the museum provides a welcoming environment for the diverse families and school groups that walk through the museum’s doors on a daily basis.
Now a college student studying criminology, which has some mathematical components, Skyler’s goal is to hit 4,000 volunteer hours. While he’s at 1,100 hours right now, it’s safe to say that he won’t have any trouble hitting that mark. But that’s not the real reason Skyler volunteers his time with the museum. When asked what inspires him to take 70 hours a month out of his busy schedule as a college student to perform volunteer work, Skyler shared that he hopes to make the world a better place, one hour at a time. He also noted that the volunteer work has vastly helped his skills in public speaking and community engagement, two things he struggled with beforehand. Skyler’s experience is a powerful example of how volunteerism can not only transform a community but also transform each of us, as well.
SKYLER PEREZ, A VOLUNTEER AT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MATHEMATICS, SPORTS HIS MUSEUM UNIFORM TO GUIDE GUESTS THROUGH THE POPULAR NEW YORK MUSEUM. /COURTESY SKYLER PEREZ
What inspired you to get started with this initiative?
I love the field of mathematics, and I wanted to channel it into something that could help the community. What better way to do that than to volunteer my time where I used to go when I was younger? I saw they have volunteer applications open during my senior year of high school, so I decided to apply because I love math.
Tell us about your volunteer role with the National Museum of Mathematics?
Usually, I greet visitors and show them how to use the interactive exhibits. For example, when it comes to large exhibits like the Square-Wheeled Tricycle, I’ll usually stand next to it and wait for visitors to come and take a look. I’ll ask if they want to try it, and I’ll guide them to use it safely. If I’m in front of the museum, I will greet them and tell them what’s there at the museum and where everything is.
What’s been the most rewarding part of your work?
I think the most rewarding thing is probably watching all the kids have a good time, knowing that I played a role in it. Most people think math is just a time-consuming subject with a bunch of numbers, but the exhibit is meant to show them a different perspective.
What have you learned through your experiences as a volunteer?
Public speaking and community engagement were the two most important things I didn’t have before I started volunteering. I’m sometimes at late-night events where I give everyone specific instructions on what to do. When it comes to school groups, I give the kids specific instructions on what to do and what not to do in the museum.
How important is it for you to share your love of mathematics with the kids?
I think it’s very important because I grew up thinking math was an annoying subject. But when I went to the museum when I was younger, around age 8 or 9, I realized a different perspective. That’s not true, and I hope that will happen to other kids as well.
Why is it important for others to get involved with causes they care about?
It contributes to your self-esteem. It contributes to your identity when you know you’re making an impact on a mission that you’re passionate about. That’s the main reason. Another one is helping the community.
Any advice for people who want to start volunteering?
It might be scary at first, but once you start, it’s easier in the long run. Today, you can even use artificial intelligence sites to automatically generate a list of nonprofit organizations that offer potential volunteer opportunities.
What do you want people to learn from your story?
Whenever you can, make the world a better place, even if it’s only a small amount.
The Dedicated Young Leader Bringing Kindness to Crisis
Meet Daily Point of Light Award honoree Brody Landes. Read his story, and nominate an outstanding volunteer or family as a Daily Point of Light.
Brody Landes has seen firsthand how deep empathy and focused action can transform lives and communities. As the leader of the Take Care Initiative, a youth-led project powered by SaLT (Service and Learning Together), Brody has channeled his passion into a powerful force for comfort and support. The initiative is designed to reach those facing the toughest times—whether from natural disasters, economic hardship or local tragedies—with intentional acts of kindness. Brody’s role involves everything from collecting essential donations to organizing the assembly and distribution of care packages and support items, a commitment that sees him devoting around 30 hours a month to service.
Under Brody’s guidance, the Take Care Initiative has sent over 2,000 care packages to Los Angeles firefighters, a gesture of gratitude and support for those on the front lines. Beyond first responders, Brody has also focused on those facing personal battles, delivering hundreds of birthday cards to children through Make-A-Wish, bringing a moment of joy into difficult health journeys. And, after devastating floods, he mobilized the initiative to send more than 400 cards and support bracelets to girls and families at Camp Mystic in the Texas Hill Country, offering encouragement and a reminder that they were not forgotten.
Brody’s hands-on leadership style ensures that these initiatives are more than just distribution services—they’re community-building efforts. He not only encourages volunteers to get involved but also actively leads during events, organizing, coordinating and making sure everyone feels included and has a meaningful role. This approach has created a sense of collective purpose toward providing tangible relief, hope and human connection. This young leader is not simply overseeing a project; he is actively weaving a stronger, kinder safety net for his community, and showing others how they, too, can step up and make a difference.
Brody carrying bags filled with food for a Shop N’ Drop event powered by SaLT.
Tell us about your volunteer role.
I work with SaLT, which stands for Service and Learning Together. We’re a local community-based organization, right here in Highland Park, which is where I go to school. At Highland Park High School, we have about 20 interns, and there is also a student board; I’m on that board.
With SaLT, we have different branches. There’s Shop and Drop, which helps local families fight food insecurity. We have Love to Learn, which is a local tutoring program at the library nearby. And then we have Take Care Packages, which helps communities in crisis. We started with migrants coming through the area and then shifted when we saw other communities in crisis. For example, when the L.A. wildfires were going on, we made care packages for the firefighters in L.A. During the New Orleans shooting, we sent care packages to students and teachers in the New Orleans area. And with the floods at Camp Mystic this past summer, we sent care packages and notes to the girl campers.
My role is a lot of getting other younger students involved. I’m a senior at my high school. We have students from nearby schools, like Lake Forest, which is a neighboring town, as well as Highland Park High School students, who come in and volunteer with us. I’m a very social person, so I’m really able to get everyone connected when we’re doing our service work. We meet twice a month for Shop and Drop, and I feel like I’m a very big advocate of making the culture of SaLT a big impact. I try to connect people who maybe don’t know each other—they’re from different high schools—and I find that that makes the service a lot more fun and more meaningful.
It’s just a really great community that I’m able to help cultivate at SaLT because of that social aspect. I’m also a hard worker, and I really understand what the goal is and why service work is so important. Especially with what we do, so many families locally are facing food insecurity or so many communities are in need of help. We’re sending these care packages, and I really feel like I have a deep understanding of what’s needed and why. Little by little, what we do is so helpful to these communities.
Which part of the program are you most passionate about?
Definitely Take Care Packages. I was one of the founders of that initiative. As a Highland Park student in 2021, we had a Fourth of July shooting during a parade, and we were given so much support during that time. It really helped me see and feel what these other communities are going through. Even if it’s not directly the same thing, just knowing there are other towns and other people out there supporting you is what makes me want to keep going with all the service that I give to my community, and to other communities around me. I think that’s why Take Care is such a big part of my life and why I love doing it so much.
What inspired you to get started with this initiative?
My science teacher from eighth grade is one of the sponsors of SaLT, as well as my uncle. That’s what really got me into it, but I don’t think I would have come back if I didn’t enjoy it. I remember in eighth grade, I wasn’t as into volunteering, but as high school came, and especially after the tragedy we had locally on the Fourth of July in 2021, I saw how much my community had done, and what other communities gave to us. I saw how that impacted me and how I wanted to impact others.
The people I referenced earlier are kind of what got me started, and then I keep coming back just because all the people around me make it what it is. It’s such a great community, and I love being able to foster that for upcoming young students younger than me. I feel like I’m able to shift it—make it more like a happy, welcoming place—and that’s what I want to do for the SaLT community now.
Tell us about future partnerships, programs or events that you are excited about.
Well, as one of our sponsors for Shop and Drop calls it, we just had our “Super Bowl” this past weekend, which is Day of Giving. We supported 200 local families. That was really what we work toward every year, and it just ended on Saturday. Upcoming, there’s a lot of community work, and we reach out whenever we see those communities in crisis.
What’s been the most rewarding part of your work?
I think it’s the experiences I have and the people I’ve met. With the experiences, I’ve become so much more of a social person because of it; I’ve come out of my shell. I was a little shyer before I got into all my service work. And now, I just have so many stories to tell. I’ve been to places that I wouldn’t have imagined and done things I wouldn’t have imagined. For example, with SaLT, I did a service learning trip to Orlando in February of 2025. We went to Give Kids The World, and I got to work with kids facing illnesses at their facility. It was just an experience I could have never imagined.
The feeling in my heart—that’s what I keep coming back for. That way, I was able to make connections with the students I went on the trip with, but also people from all across the world who just wanted to find happiness at Give Kids The World. I felt like I was able to give that to them, and that was such a great feeling for me.
What have you learned through your experiences volunteering?
SaLT has nine guiding principles that we work by, and I think a lot of those principles are how I approach my service work now. A few examples are “Little by Little,” which means every little thing that you do really makes a difference. No matter what, if you do something little by little, you’re going to be able to get to the goal you’re working towards. I see that with our service work; when we’re filling bags full of food, for instance, little by little, donations and all these small things build up to something way bigger that we’re able to do for our community.
We also have “Respect First, Then Serve.” We always want to make sure we understand what we’re doing before we actually serve. On my SaLT trip, especially, we journaled to make sure we were getting the best experience out of our service work. We didn’t want to just do it because we were there; we wanted to understand what the families were going through, what these kids were going through and make sure we were able to give the best service possible to these groups.
Brody filling bags with socks and hats during Day of Giving.
Why is it important for others, especially youth, to get involved with causes they care about?
I think it’s so important for youth to get involved because it fosters such a different mindset than you normally experience in high school or other things. In high school, you’re working so much for yourself—you want to get your best grades, you want to be the most popular. But when I go to my service work, I’m working with a bunch of other students toward a common goal. We’re fostering this amazing community together. Just working toward this common goal is something that you don’t really see in other aspects of your life, especially as a high school student where you’re all trying to be the smartest or trying to get into the best colleges. It’s a completely different way of looking at things.
Any advice for people who want to start volunteering?
Just reach out. If you know anyone that’s involved, really talk to them and they’ll give you a lot of insight. I think everyone who volunteers has a great time doing it, especially around me with SaLT, but I know other people, too, around the country who have the same experiences. It’s just such an amazing group of people. You really don’t find a community that gives as much as volunteer people do. They’re always trying to help and look out for more. And I think it’s just so great to see, especially with youth volunteers, how much time and effort they’re willing to give. It’s truly a step away from the normal life you live.
What do you want people to learn from your story?
Service has kind of been what’s gotten me through high school. I’ve made probably half of my friends through service, which going into high school I would have never expected. It’s become my biggest extracurricular. I was such a big athlete before high school. And I loved sports, but it didn’t feel like that was what I wanted to continue doing. Once I got into SaLT, I realized how much of it really is a part of me now, and it’s become truly what I feel makes me the best version of myself. That’s why I keep coming back, because I see all these friends I’ve made, and I see all these experiences I’ve had, and those things have made me who I am now.
Volunteer Uplifts Her Community Through Service and Advocacy
Meet Daily Point of Light Award honoree Karla Valentin. Read her story, and nominate an outstanding volunteer or family as a Daily Point of Light.
When the call goes out for help in Boston, Karla Valentin is often the first to answer. A long-time volunteer with Embrace Boston since 2024, Karla has become a cornerstone of the organization’s efforts through her proactive, agile spirit. Whether it’s a last-minute request or a high-stakes event, she arrives with an eagerness that transforms the energy of the room. Karla is a natural community builder who has recruited a network of friends and neighbors into the fold, ensuring that the spirit of service grows exponentially through the people she inspires.
Having been present at the city’s most significant cultural milestones, Karla’s been a tireless force within the 2024-2025 Signature Series, contributing hours and hours of service to both the 5e Freedom Rally and the annual Juneteenth celebrations. To her volunteer manager, who began leading the team in April 2025, Karla represents the ideal volunteer, showing up not just when it’s convenient, but when the community needs her most. Her reliability in time-sensitive situations has made her an indispensable asset to the city.
However, Karla’s heart for service is felt in many other corners of the community, stretching back nearly a decade. For over eight years, she has dedicated herself to the protection of the vulnerable, serving as a board member and monthly volunteer for Enough Abuse. In this role, she works to raise awareness around the critical issues of child sexual abuse and trafficking, proving that she is as comfortable in a leadership boardroom as she is on the front lines of a rally. Even with such heavy responsibilities, Karla remains grounded in the basic needs of her neighbors. On the third Saturday of every month, she can be found at the Hyde Park Food Pantry, personally distributing food to families. Her outreach continues through Greater Love Health Ministries, where she spends every other month advocating for community health awareness.
Karla helps paint one of the Boston Public Schools.
Read on to hear more of Karla’s inspirational story: how it all started, and why she does what she does.
What inspired you to get started with this initiative?
I got involved with Embrace Boston through Michael Curry, who used to be the NAACP president. I’d volunteered around Boston, and I realized it was something I love and cherish. I got involved with volunteerism in the first place through my father’s activism work that he did in Boston. I saw something so powerful in Embrace. The organization talks about how we are all one. And it’s the truth. At the end of the day, we are all one, and we all want the same things to move forward. That’s how I became so involved. I did the rallies, and as I kept volunteering, I realized I wanted to do more and more of it.
Tell us about your volunteer role.
A lot of times I’m ushering. Making sure people know where they’re going, just spreading awareness. Like, “Here’s the brochure, we’re talking about this,” and just making sure people are guided the right way. I follow my leader’s plan. Embrace is always keeping us involved in things. They always keep you updated with emails and things like that when it comes to different actions. For the whole MLK weekend, there’s always something to do, every day. And even through Juneteenth, I’m involved with that. I volunteer at the receptions, the marches, the parades. It’s pretty dope
Why is this issue so important to you?
I think for me personally, it’s being a Black woman. As far as Martin Luther King Jr. and his wife and what they stood for—what he stood for was equality, being a part of something, having your voice raised. And I think Embrace is so important, even for now and even for our future. They hold a standard. And they truly involve and embrace everybody of all cultures and backgrounds, and I think that’s so important especially right now.
Of course, the City of Boston is more liberal, but you still have certain people who don’t believe equality. I really believe that Martin Luther King was about that. I’m originally from Memphis, Tennessee. My father was involved in that activism in Memphis, and then he moved to Boston. I think activism is just so important, and that’s why I love what I do with Embrace. Like I said, they always keep you up to date with different information.
What have you learned through your experiences volunteering?
For me, learning is listening to different people speak about the different statistics that are going on in the world—not just in Boston, but everywhere. Things related to equality, regarding race, how to deal with these different things. I’ve learned a lot of history too, even with Juneteenth. You know, it’s so funny, because I’ve been in Boston all my life, since I was three years old, and even when I started with Embrace, I didn’t realize how many Black people were doing so many things around the Boston area until Embrace came about.
Of course, I’m part of the NAACP, but Embrace really breaks it down and they invite everybody to the party. When they have different things, they’re not asking you for tickets or anything like that; it’s free. It’s information about rallies, about freedom, about history. They get everybody involved, and it’s just something that people should embrace. That’s what I feel.
What’s been the most rewarding part of your work?
Meeting people. You know, you live in Boston all this time, you just don’t know who these people are. And you get to have these conversations, and I think that’s really important. I know a lot of people; my father was a bishop here in Boston and had over eight churches under him, and also my family, we have a beauty salon in Boston. So I know a lot of people. But when you go to some of the Embrace events, you meet so many powerful people—Black, White, Latino—and you get to meet these people and learn their journey. They just didn’t pop up overnight; they’ve been doing this in the background for a long time. They’ve been fighting the fight, and they continue to fight.
I tell people a lot about Embrace. Even my friends. I’m like, “You need to get involved in Embrace.” One of my friends—she’s so funny because I went to an all-white school. Three of my friends actually signed up for Embrace because they wanted to know more. I think that’s so interesting, because when I was going to school, they didn’t talk about Black history like they do now. I learned Black history from home and the NAACP. Like I said, I learn a lot from just meeting new people. I think volunteering is just the best, because you learn so much.
Why is it important for others to get involved with causes they care about?
I think it’s so important to volunteer because you get to you get to meet people and, you know, rub your elbows with people. You’re like, “Oh my god, I see you on TV. I didn’t think you’d ever talk to me, have a conversation.” But you have these conversations and you find out “Oh, you’re just like me.” We’re all the same people, regardless of color or status or whatnot. We’re all learning from each other, and I think that’s so important. I love volunteering. I know some people are like, “Why do you do that?” and “Isn’t it a lot of work?” It is. But you know what? It’s all for a good cause, and that’s why I love doing it.
Any advice for people who want to start volunteering?
I say take that time out and do it. You know, people are always on this kick about self-care. Well, this is self-care, too. When you’re volunteering, because you know you’re doing some good for somebody else, you’re reaching out and you’re finding out what the organization is all about. Then you can be aware, and then you talk about it, and then you share it with other people. It’s self-care. It makes you feel good.
I say take that one step. It’s one step at a time. And it’s so funny, because when I became a volunteer with Embrace, I was never scared about doing it. Even though I remember one of the rallies it was raining and I’m like, “Oh Lord, I just got my hair done, I don’t want to get my hair wet!” But you know what? That day was so powerful because I learned so much. Take that chance and go for it. Take a leap. Just take a leap.
What do you want people to learn from your story?
I think that Embrace is powerful, and it’s for the future. Embrace is peaceful, and it’s protection. You feel protected, and you feel like you know what’s going on. I think there is something powerful in this organization, for everybody around the country, especially with what’s going on in the world. You know the saying, “Keep on keeping on.”
How a Family Turned Their Lawn into 10 Tons of Hope
Meet Daily Point of Light Award honoree Jean-Marie & Cory Buxton. Read their story, and nominate an outstanding volunteer or family as a Daily Point of Light.
In 2018, Jean-Marie and Cory Buxton looked at their one-acre property in Corvallis, Oregon, and saw more than just a yard. They saw an opportunity to feed their community. By removing one-third of their lawn to plant organic crops and dedicating another third as a fruit orchard, the couple launched the Farmette Project with a simple philosophy: grow-to-give. Seven years later, that vision has blossomed into a staggering reality. As of the 2025 season, the family has reached a monumental milestone, delivering 10 tons of free, fresh produce to neighbors facing food insecurity, local food banks and nearby Native American tribes.
The operation is a labor of love that requires grit and creativity, often demanding up to 160 hours a month during the peak summer season. To keep the project self-funded without taking a salary, Jean-Marie leverages 25 years of experience as a soap maker, selling handmade crafts to cover expenses and purchase high-value produce, like melons and berries, at discounted rates. This sweat equity is matched by deep community ties, as the couple spends hours harvesting in Oregon State University’s Dry Farming Collaborative fields and gleaning surplus from local partners.
The Buxtons’ work creates a vital bridge between agricultural abundance and those facing food insecurity. For 12 weeks each summer, they coordinate deliveries to partners like St. Vincent DePaul and coastal Native American tribes, ensuring that fresh, nutritious food reaches tables that need it most. The project has become a masterclass in logistics and heart, securing farm matches where every dollar spent on produce is doubled in value by generous farmers. As one private donor noted, the project provides a grateful outlet for families who grow more than they can consume, turning excess harvest into community sustenance.
Driven by the core values that fresh food matters and that a single family can make a difference, the Buxtons show no signs of slowing down. After meeting their 10-ton goal, they are already looking toward the 2026 season, bolstered by a contribution from a Native American tribe to secure future farm matches. Whether they are saving seeds, organizing volunteers or selling crafts to fund the next harvest, Jean-Marie and Cory prove that the “power of one” can ripple outward, transforming a patch of grass in Corvallis into an engine for greater food security and community connection.
Tell us about your volunteer role.
Jean-Marie: In 2018, my family bought a one-acre property in Corvallis, Oregon, and started a food justice project named The Farmette Project. We removed a portion of our lawn and started to grow-to-give. We solicited fruit and vegetables from private donors, commercial farms and Oregon State University. We contacted nearby Native American tribes to assess their need and interest. We began delivering food weekly during peak season to local food banks, to free food stands and to Native American reservations. In 2025 we hit our goal of delivering 10 tons of free fresh produce!
Cory: Alongside Jean-Marie, I share in the work of The Farmette Project: growing, harvesting and gleaning fresh fruits and vegetables from Oregon’s Willamette Valley and driving it to our partner’s food distribution center on the coast.
Why is food security so important to you?
Jean-Marie: Fresh food matters. So often people facing food insecurity don’t have access to fresh produce and I can directly impact that with my front yard. I can pick fruits and vegetables from donors and deliver it. It matters to me that beautiful fruit grown in the lush valley I live in flows to the food desert pockets around us, and I have agency to help make that happen. It matters to me that Native American elders and families around us feel seen and have access to this beautiful fresh produce.
Cory: The number of Americans living with daily food insecurity, and without access to fresh fruits and vegetables, is both a national crisis and a needless condition. Ample fresh food is grown in this country to feed us all. Too often there is a lack of connection between food production and food distribution.
Fresh produce from the Buxtons’ grow‑to‑give project is prepared for delivery to local food‑insecure communities. /Courtesy Jean‑Marie & Cory Buxton
What inspired you to get started with The Farmette Project?
Jean-Marie: I’m a social worker by training, and as a young person I volunteered on a Native American reservation. I saw old, low-quality food distributed to people as commodities. It made me want to be someone who gave people the opposite—the freshest, highest quality food. When we landed on our one acre in Oregon, I knew we could start to make this dream come true.
Cory: When we moved to Oregon’s Willamette Valley eight years ago, we were struck by how much produce went to waste each year. Fresh fruit was literally decomposing on the ground because there was such abundance. Simultaneously, the Oregon coast, only an hour’s drive away, does not have the climate to grow fruit and vegetables, and there are numerous communities classified as food deserts. We felt that we could help to connect these communities.
What are your long-term plans or goals for the organization?
Jean-Marie: We met our initial goal of delivering 10 tons of free fresh produce, and plan to continue making deliveries in the coming years. We are committed to creating stronger institutional connections between our communities.
What’s been the most rewarding part of your work?
Jean-Marie: Building the relationship with the tribe has been the most rewarding part of the project. There is real joy in it. Reaching the 10-ton goal was also great—it has been very fun to see something we set in motion hit its mark.
Cory: The most rewarding part for me is feeling that this project has been a “win” for everyone involved. We get the reward of knowing that we have done meaningful work that is valued by our partners. Patrons who supported our fundraisers knew their money was going to direct action at the local level. Our grower-partners know that the food they are giving is going quickly and directly to where it is needed. Our food-receiving partners know they can consistently offer fresh produce to their clients in summer.
What have you learned through your experiences as a volunteer?
Jean-Marie: I’ve learned that showing up consistently and building relationships are what matters most. We don’t have to wait. We can take action ourselves and enroll people into our vision.
Cory: The volunteer experiences I had as a young person (most notably as a U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer in Guatemala from 1989 to 1992) were fundamental to shaping decisions I have made throughout my life. I have always known that it is important for young people to have experiences volunteering. The Farmette Project has reminded me that making time to volunteer is still important for people of all ages.
Why is it important for others to get involved with causes they care about?
Jean-Marie: Do what you can, when you can. I did little when my kids were young, and feel lucky to have gotten to design and execute a project based on our own vision in our own time. Volunteering and creating your own service project is such a great opportunity for self-expression.
Cory: Current research as well as popular media are full of studies and stories about how in our modern society, many people feel increasingly disconnected, powerless and depressed. Doing something meaningful, no matter how small, for a cause you care about can serve as a counter to negative feelings.
Any advice for people who want to start volunteering?
Jean-Marie: Create what you want to see, and remember you don’t have to reinvent the wheel. There are thousands of points of light out there showing us how it’s done.
Cory: While there are many great organizations that provide volunteer opportunities, remember that if you don’t have access to an existing opportunity that excites you, you can always create your own. Don’t be afraid to be an entrepreneurial volunteer!
A High School Senior’s Friendly Fridge Solution to Food Insecurity
Meet Daily Point of Light Award honoree Sophia Birman. Read her story, and nominate an outstanding volunteer or family as a Daily Point of Light.
Sophia Birman, a senior at Bronx Science High School in New York City, is already making a profound impact on her community. While she is a dedicated advocate for gender equity in STEM, her most recent community service triumph addresses a vital need for food access. Recognizing that many food-insecure New Yorkers struggle to access traditional food pantries due to limited operating hours, Sophia, in her role as director of policy on the NYPD 52nd Precinct Youth Leadership Council, co-founded the “Friendly Fridges” initiative, a powerful, round-the-clock solution.
The need for a novel approach was especially urgent in the Bronx, the NYC borough facing the highest level of food insecurity. Sophia and her peers created “Friendly Fridges” to be free, communal refrigerators accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The project required significant dedication; over a concentrated four-month effort, Sophia invested considerable time and talent into research, reporting, calculating solutions and building an implementation plan. Her outreach was extensive, including contacting over 300 local businesses to secure location, materials and stocking partners. Ultimately, this hard work resulted in a successful collaboration with Part of the Solution (POTS), a longtime Bronx nonprofit and food pantry.
The inaugural Friendly Fridge, which Home Depot donated at no cost, is connected to the exterior of the POTS food pantry. This single location now provides over 250 free meals to the community every day. For example, ahead of every Sunday when the pantry is closed, POTS staff stock the fridge with between 200 and 300 meals. They also ensure the fridge is stocked before closing on other days, solving the critical issue of access when pantries are shut. Though she serves on the Youth Leadership Council, which only meets 45 minutes a week, Sophia continues to dedicate approximately 12 hours each month to the ongoing, year-round operation.
Looking ahead, Sophia’s team is focused on expansion. The Friendly Fridges initiative is currently broadening its partnerships, with seven organizations agreeing to host a new fridge and 30 organizations—including large grocery chains such as Whole Foods—committed to stocking them. Sophia continues to personally lead outreach efforts, coordinating future fridges, securing materials, and ensuring food safety. Her positive and hopeful dedication to solving food insecurity for low-income communities in the Bronx proves that a simple, brilliant idea, backed by exceptional student leadership, can open doors to consistent community support.
Sophia Birman, co-founder of the Friendly Fridge project, collaborates with members to decorate a community fridge before it’s placed in the neighborhood.
Tell us about your organization and volunteer role.
I co-founded the “Friendly Fridges” project through the New York Police Department’s Youth Leadership Council Program. This is a city-wide program where different police precincts partner with a public high school to foster better community relations and create a community service project. My school was chosen to partner with the 52nd Precinct, and I was selected to be part of the council.
My school is in the North Bronx, one of the most food-insecure areas in the city. When we started meeting, we discussed what we could do to help our community, and what the biggest need was. We first noticed issues like homelessness and drug problems, but we began realizing that the root cause of much of this was a lack of food access. We saw that a lack of food access can lead to worse education outcomes and impede someone from attending a job. We identified food access as the biggest root cause, especially considering that, statistically, one in five people in the Bronx are food insecure, which is 5% more than any other borough in New York. That was how we initially got the idea to target food access and create the Friendly Fridge project.
What inspired you to get started with this initiative?
When we were thinking about food access, we recognized that a lot of food pantries were already there. We have these resources, but somehow the system is still failing. We started putting the numbers together: most food pantries, for example, close at 3 p.m., but most working-class people are working until 5 p.m. and are not able to get to the food pantry in time for dinner. Or, sometimes they can be closed on Sundays or one day a week. And people need food all days of the week.
We realized we couldn’t make these food pantries work 24/7; we understood that’s not structurally feasible. But we asked, “What can we do to solve for these gaps in the working hours?” That’s how we identified 24/7 community fridges. Our business model is that we partner with local organizations—restaurants, grocery stores or food pantries—to install a fridge outside of their storefront, and they help stock it. We put food in it either every day or every week.
This way, people can access food 24/7. It’s completely open; you can just open it up and take some food for yourself. While we knew there were other community fridges throughout the Bronx run by community members who donate, we wanted to ensure a more constant flow of food, which is why we wanted to partner with institutions like restaurants and grocery stores that could provide this consistent supply.
Why is fighting food insecurity so important to you?
Food insecurity is truly the gateway for so many other issues. At the most basic level, food is a necessity for survival. For anyone to be able to get a job, for example, to help themselves get out of poverty, they need to have food access to survive on. We have so many systemic issues, but I think a lot of them are just exacerbated by the lack of food access on many levels. The idea of expanding food access was not only because it’s the biggest issue facing our localized precinct, but also because all these more difficult and complex institutional issues, such as lack of access to education and lack of access to jobs, we thought could be solved through improving food access.
What are your long-term plans or goals for the organization?
We’re trying to expand to even more locations. As I said, we have one fridge that’s up and running, but we’ve encountered some logistical issues that we are trying to resolve. In general, going forward, we are focused on expanding to more places. We’re partnering with a food pantry that is willing to both host the fridge and provide the food, but we are hoping to negotiate some more complex agreements that would allow for even more fridges. For example, having a restaurant host the fridge, but having a grocery store stock it with non-perishables. Whole Foods, for one, has indicated that they might be willing to stock a fridge with items from their grocery store, which is amazing. Overall, the goal is just expanding for more fridges throughout the Bronx.
What’s the most rewarding part of your work?
When we launched our first fridge, it took a lot of phone calls. We called over 300 businesses and grocery stores and things of that nature. Actually being able to install our first fridge was so rewarding. We came that day, we decorated, we painted the entire fridge and we installed it on the exterior. It was great because for a very long time we had theorized about this, but we knew it would be difficult to figure out the logistics. We had no funding. We had to organize for Home Depot to donate the fridge and then ask someone to store it outside of their storefront. I think that was definitely the most rewarding part of it, but it’s really just the idea that we’re making a difference. The idea that we’re seeing this fridge being restocked almost every day, and that people are actually using these resources, I think, is truly impactful.
What have you learned through your experiences volunteering?
Logistically, the impact is really in the small details. It was us noticing, “Okay, food pantries close at 3 p.m., but people get off work at 5 p.m. That two hours doesn’t line up.” It was noticing that small detail that allowed us to see these systemic gaps and actually fix them.
Maybe one lesson I learned is not to always look at the big picture. Don’t think I need to make a big, sweeping reform. Looking at these small things and thinking, “How can I change this?” is what can actually lead to long-term change.
Something else is drawing on lived experiences. My council, which created this project together, comes from all five boroughs of the city and lots of different backgrounds. The way we came to this idea was not one person saying, “Hey, I think we should do this.” It was through lots of iterations, using, “I actually have a fridge in my community, and it doesn’t work because of this,” or, “I’ve noticed this in other communities, and it works because of this.” We came up with a solution by taking all of our observations and unique backgrounds.
Why is it important for others, especially youth, to get involved with causes they care about?
Overall, I think it’s our duty as citizens and members of our society to be committed to bettering the circumstance for everyone. This is for a moral idea, but also just the fact that we are a society that grows collectively. If I’m able to help someone, give them food access and that enables them to get a job, that could enable them to innovate something or just help keep our society running. We are more interdependent on one another than we realize.
Specifically for youth, I think youth are the future of the nation. Sometimes we are put down, or we put ourselves down as, “We’re very young. We can’t change anything.” But I think it’s noticing these small things that we can change and then using those experiences so that when we get into those higher positions of power, when we become policymakers, we’re able to draw back on these experiences and create even more change. I also think we kind of have a unique perspective on things that adults may not realize, just because of the way we’ve encountered life differently, especially growing up in the technological era. Recognizing our unique insights is key.
Any advice for people who want to start volunteering?
It can definitely feel scary to create your own initiative. So, if you want to start volunteering, whether you’re in a big city or a rural town, there’s always space for you to volunteer where you’re always going to be appreciated. As I said, we try to foster a really collaborative environment in our project, and I know that many other initiatives tend to do so as well. It can even be online, and even the smallest thing makes a difference. I also think if you want to create something, it demands a lot of introspection and reflection, and what you need to do is not going to come to you immediately. That is completely okay. Just recognize that.
What do you want people to learn from your story?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. For example, we were struggling to get a free fridge on our own. But thankfully, the police officers that we were working with were able to use their connections with Home Depot to help us get the fridge. Initially, we didn’t want to go to them. We thought, “Oh, we can do this on our own.” But not being afraid to ask for help, whether from your partners or even from your peers, is the biggest thing. Again, collaboration is really key to having a successful movement.
Teen Steps Up to Protect Outdoor Workers from Texas Heat
Meet Daily Point of Light Award honoree Rishika Padhy. Read her story, and nominate an outstanding volunteer or family as a Daily Point of Light.
With the heat index often soaring past 100 degrees, Texas summers can be brutal. While many people escape into air-conditioned offices, outdoor laborers—many of them immigrants—spend long days working under the sun. The constant exposure puts them at risk for heat-related illness and has even led to a number of deaths that were largely preventable.
Seventeen-year-old Rishika Padhy felt that heat almost immediately after moving to Texas from India two years ago. Just walking outside to get where she needed to go, she could feel her skin burning. It made her stop and wonder how people who work outdoors every day manage to push through conditions like that.
That question led Rishika to Solace for Outdoor Workers, a nonprofit focused on protecting outdoor laborers from heat and sun exposure. What started as a social media internship quickly grew into something much bigger. Today, Rishika leads Solace’s Texas chapter, coordinating outreach, securing grants and distributing sun-protective gear to workers across North Texas, all while balancing life as a high school senior.
Beyond hands-on support, Rishika has also helped elevate workers’ voices at the policy level through partnerships with labor advocacy groups. Her work has contributed to efforts around Texas House Bill 446, proposed legislation aimed at improving workplace heat safety and protecting workers who speak up about dangerous conditions.
What first inspired you to start volunteering with Solace for Outdoor Workers?
I started with Solace during my sophomore year of high school. During that summer, I was really compelled to walk in the sun a lot because Dallas doesn’t really have public transportation, and my family didn’t have a car at the time. I walked to a lot of places in the heat, and that experience really stuck with me.
I discovered Solace through a social media internship opportunity. At first, I just wanted to spread awareness about the risks of heat exposure, especially for outdoor workers. But as I became more involved, I realized how many workers are overlooked and unprotected. Despite facing life-threatening conditions daily, they often don’t have access to even basic protection.
I wanted to give them a sense of gratitude and appreciation through my work. Eventually, through my consistent work ethic with Solace, I was promoted to lead the Texas chapter. That allowed me not just to educate people, but also to take action by creating tangible support systems for workers. That’s really when everything started for me.
Was there a specific moment that pushed your concern into action?
There was one particular outdoor worker I learned about while I was researching as a social media intern. They had skin cancer, and their entire family also had skin cancer. Many of them worked outside in extreme heat—some were gardeners, some were construction workers—and the illness had kind of run through the family.
That really pushed me to dive deeper into their experiences. I realized that many workers were in similar situations because they didn’t know what heat-related illness was or how dangerous long-term sun exposure could be. With climate change, the heat has become even more intense, especially in Texas.
Rishika, bottom left, and another volunteer pose with outdoor workers after providing them with sunscreen./ Courtesy Rishika Padhy
Tell us about your volunteer role with Solace.
I lead the McKinney chapter, which also works closely with the Plano chapter and another chapter in Allen. The other two chapters aren’t as active right now, so I’ve mainly been leading the work across all of them.
I spend most of my time working on grants and outreach. One of our most important collaborations is with an organization in Arlington, Texas, that works directly with outdoor laborers and also has connections with Congress. They advocate heavily for outdoor workers’ rights and recently helped lobby for legislation focused on worker safety.
We collaborated closely with them throughout that process. Since many of the workers they support are Spanish-speaking, they help us with translation, while I work mainly on the English outreach side.
I also help distribute care products like sunscreen, cooling towels and hats to outdoor workers. In addition, I develop educational campaigns and materials to raise awareness about heat-related illness and safe work practices, which are often overlooked in North Texas.
Across all the chapters, we’ve raised about $1,500 together. And we’ve helped around 150-250 workers by providing sunscreen, hats and other protective gear.
Why was amplifying immigrant laborers’ voices at the national level important to you?
With everything going on in the U.S., I believe immigrant workers don’t deserve to be demoralized. They’re just trying to build better lives for themselves and their families.
These workers are incredibly hardworking, and many of them don’t have criminal histories. They contribute to America in ways that often go unrecognized. These are jobs that most people wouldn’t want to do because they’re so physically demanding, yet immigrant workers step up and do them.
I think it’s important to show appreciation for them without judging where they’re from or how they speak.
What has been the most rewarding part of your work?
Seeing the direct impact of my efforts. Even when language is a barrier, small gestures—smiles, simple interactions—help us connect and show that we care.
Watching their faces light up when they receive care products or safety guidance reminds me that even tiny actions can make someone feel valued, seen and protected. It’s powerful to know that our work provides both physical relief and emotional reassurance.
Rishika poses for a photo with two outdoor workers after providing them with sunscreen./ Courtesy Rishika Padhy
Do you plan to continue this work as you head to college?
Yes, I definitely plan to continue. I want to expand our chapter to more areas of Texas, especially low-income communities that are under-protected.
Even though there are rules and regulations around workplace safety, they’re often ignored. I want to make sure no one feels unseen or unsafe while working in these harsh environments. I’d love to expand outreach on campus, possibly by creating a club or fundraising for outdoor workers while I’m in college.
Why do you think it’s important for people to get involved in causes they care about?
Getting involved allows people to align their values with their actions and make a tangible difference in others’ lives. Volunteering builds empathy, awareness and leadership skills, and it fosters a sense of shared responsibility.
When people engage with causes they personally resonate with, it creates a deeper connection and amplifies the positive impact they can have.
What do you want people to learn from your story?
I want people to know that you don’t have to be defined by your circumstances. You can make a difference in other people’s lives.
Maybe you can become the person you needed when you yourself were struggling. Being a light in someone else’s life is incredibly important—and everyone has the ability to do that.
THIS VOLUNTEER IS FORGING A PATH FOR YOUNG NATURALISTS
Meet Daily Point of Light Award honoree Jeanne Andrews. Read her story, and nominate an outstanding volunteer or family as a Daily Point of Light.
Jeanne Andrews loves the outdoors, and she wants everyone in her community to have the same opportunity to explore it. A children’s librarian and master naturalist, Jeanne saw the abandoned ten-acre plot next to the library where she worked not as something to avoid, but as something with potential. But the area had been treated as a dumping ground and wasn’t safe for the local kids to navigate. Jeanne had an idea to bring the community together to clear the area and create a vibrant park and outdoor haven that everyone could enjoy. She decided to turn the space into Franklin Woodland Trails, a community recreational trail system and outdoor educational space. Featuring one and a half miles of connected paths, the trails are filled with natural beauty and discovery areas, such as the Story Trail and Fairy Forest. Whether it’s the flowing creek or the charming bridges, everyone can connect with nature in the FWT.
Jeanne’s dedication to the Trails is unparalleled. She dedicates 15 to 20 hours per month to making sure the FWT thrives, and completes tasks that range from leading nature hikes and general trail maintenance to applying for grants and educating children to become environmental stewards. But one of the greatest components of the Franklin Woodland Trails is the way it calls upon the community to participate in helping it thrive. Jeanne encourages the community to come out for monthly Revitalization Workdays to clear debris, improve paths and maintain the stunning natural resource to be in its best condition for everyone.
While Jeanne spearheaded the movement to create Franklin Woodland Trails, she’s quick to thank those who helped get her there, from the community association to the local scouts. She says she has volunteers who will come out at a day’s notice to help her work on the space. The success of the Trails is not only a testament to Jeanne’s dedication, but to the power of how much volunteers can accomplish when they work together to achieve something.
What inspires you to volunteer?
I have experience working with children through the library, and as a Master Naturalist, I understand that children are healthier and happier when they have the opportunity to play outside. I know that research shows children today have an average of seven minutes of unstructured outdoor play time. When kids have time outside, it improves their physical, mental and emotional health, and reduces stress and anxiety. That’s really a passion of mine. It’s so that we can have healthier children and so that we can grow environmental stewards for the future.
JEANNE ANDREWS IS THE FOUNDER OF THE FRANKLIN WOODLAND TRAILS, A COMMUNITY RECREATIONAL TRAIL SYSTEM AND OUTDOOR EDUCATIONAL SPACE IN REISTERSTOWN, MARYLAND. /COURTESY JEANNE ANDREWS
Tell us about your volunteer role with Franklin Woodland Trails.
I’m kind of a jack of all trades. I organize our volunteers because we have a monthly cleanup. I’m out there every day, but I’m seeing different things that need to be repaired or worked on for our cleanups. I’m planning, I’m doing the physical labor, I’m chainsawing and I’m weedwhacking. I work with the scout troops. We’ve had at least a dozen Eagle Scout projects in the park, so they approach me about how they can contribute. I’m always trying to brainstorm things to add to the nature discovery area. They’ve done everything from building a stage to building discovery boxes. I’m actively researching things that we can add to this. I’m building things to add to the fairy forest, like little houses, bridges and ladders. I work on the story trail and pick the stories that go in it. I work on social media marketing and maintain the Facebook page. I’m always trying to find ways to fundraise for the trail.
What inspired you to get started with this initiative?
In about 2017, I became a Certified Master Naturalist. With that training, I wanted to implement some nature programming at the library where I work. It was really a journey. I’m in charge of children’s programming. I wanted to create a nature programming series for families. I wanted to take the kids outside. We have an area of grass outside the library, and it borders a wooded property along the perimeter. We were having a program outside, and the kids were very interested in investigating the wooded area. This 10-acre wooded area was very overgrown and filled with rubbish and had been neglected for decades. So I thought, well, let’s do something about this. And it evolved from having a place for a program to having a place for our community. I decided to make a trail for people to be able to walk.
What are your long-term plans or goals for the organization?
We’ve got a very robust group of volunteers, so we’re going to keep at it. I find that the more we add, there’s more and more to maintain. Long term, we’ll keep adding, keep repairing and keep building. I want to continue our environmental programming, continue researching and continue my professional development in order to provide the best programming that I can for our community.
What’s been the most rewarding part of your work?
It’s actually really easy to see the many ways that the Franklin Woodland Trails are being enjoyed by the community. I had no idea. I anticipated that once people discovered the trail, they would be walking on it, and they do. I’ve seen people jogging on it. I’ve seen people walking their dogs. Families enjoy the discovery area. We have an occupational therapist who has her sessions out there. Birthday parties are being held here. We have a group of homeschool families that come every Friday to do nature programming. We are bordered by a preschool, and they come and do nature walks every week. The impact that it’s having on the community is just so incredible. I work in the library, and I’ll be shelving books and I’ll hear kids in our children’s area ask to go out to the trail when they leave. To realize that what I had envisioned is happening is just the greatest reward.
JEANNE ANDREWS, THE FOUNDER OF FRANKLIN WOODLAND TRAILS, CLEARS AWAY INVASIVE PLANTS AND VINES THAT FALL ONTO THE TRAILS DURING STORMS. /COURTESY JEANNE ANDREWS
What have you learned through your experiences as a volunteer?
I’ve learned that people are incredibly generous; once they learned what we were trying to do, they were so generous with their donations. We received donations from the Rec Center, from the local businesses, from the Sons of the American Legion, the scout troops, the Garden Club and everybody with their volunteer hours. I’ve been out in the park, and there have been families that just come out on their own to do their own clean up, teaching their kids. This is how we take care of our environment. It’s actually humbling to see you know that people can be so generous with their time and their resources for something that they really care about.
Why is it important for others to get involved with causes they care about?
It’s important to find your own people when you can share a common cause, as it’s a very bonding experience. You work side by side, and you enjoy that camaraderie. You can share the successes and the challenges, and it’s such a great way to build community. Sometimes I find, especially today, that’s difficult to come by. It’s very nice to have that support and friendship.
Any advice for people who want to start volunteering?
The very first thing you should do is take some time for self-reflection. It would be important to think about your interests and your passions. Consider how much time you have to spend and whether you’re looking for a regular commitment or something that is just for a day. Are you looking to make new acquaintances or maybe learn a skill? There are countless opportunities out there, but it’s going to be a more fulfilling experience if you can find a really good fit.
Meet the Young Woman on a Mission to Make the Future Fearless
Meet Daily Point of Light Award honoree Lila Mosse. Read her story, and nominate an outstanding volunteer or family as a Daily Point of Light.
For many young women, the transition to college or solo living brings a mix of excitement and apprehension regarding personal safety. Lila Mosse, a Krav Maga brown belt, recognized this vulnerability and decided to meet it with strength. As the founder of Fearless Future, an initiative launched under the Key Biscayne Community Foundation Incubator for Youth Service Projects, she’s on a dedicated mission to replace anxiety with capability. Her organization empowers teenage girls through comprehensive self-defense education, designed not only to equip them with the tools to protect themselves and others but to build the unshakable confidence needed to navigate the world independently.
Lila pours 15 to 20 hours a month into the operations of her nonprofit. She personally reaches out to schools, libraries and community centers to organize and market her workshops, ensuring the environment is perfect for learning. Her curriculum is holistic, blending physical techniques with critical discussions on situational awareness, the dangers of drugs and alcohol, and smart planning for personal safety. Whether she is teaching an intimate group of 10 or holding multiple sessions for a senior class of over 100 girls, her workshops are designed to be relevant to anyone preparing for independence.
The tangible impact of Fearless Future is evident in the growing statistics and community support. Lila has successfully raised over $5,000 to sustain her mission, including significant contributions during Give Miami Day 2024. Her efforts have so far empowered over 500 young women, with her teachings reaching students locally and abroad. She encourages every student to take this newfound knowledge back to their homes and communities, hoping the message multiplies through their shared experiences. Lila is committed to continuing her work for years to come, ensuring that the next generation of women can step into their futures with their heads held high.
Lila at the front of the training room in her Fearless Future shirt and red belt, getting ready to lead a self-defense session.
Tell us about your volunteer role.
When I was 7 years old, my parents started me in self-defense classes because I was eventually going to go to college and face dangerous situations on my own. As I grew older, I realized the importance of what those classes gave to me. I started to spread the message as a way to share the empowerment I received. I wanted to spread it to other people as a force for safety, confidence and independence.
We host self-defense classes in schools, gyms, community centers, homes and more. We started off with small events for 10 to 15 people, but we also do big events, such as one we did last year for a high school senior class of almost 100 girls. My Krav Maga instructor, Steve, and I teach all of these workshops. We’ve hosted workshops in Miami, Philadelphia and even in some small neighborhoods in Colombia. I’m really proud to be part of this important project. It means a lot.
Does your family have a background in Krav Maga?
My parents do not know Krav Maga at all. It started when we moved to Miami from Buenos Aires. We were somewhere so new. The reason we moved to Miami was that in Buenos Aires, we were in very, very dangerous situations many times. My parents care a lot. It was very important for them that I learned how to defend myself, especially moving to a whole new country. So they started me doing that, even though they don’t have any background in it.
Why is self-defense so important for young people to know?
At the start of our workshops, many participants find the punches and kicks very difficult. They are uncomfortable thinking about things like danger, violence and weapons. They don’t even want to think about it because it sounds very scary. I’ve heard a lot of people say, “Oh, you’re a girl that’s going to be up against a grown man. You won’t be able to defend yourself.” But as the workshops progress, they are able to familiarize themselves and become more comfortable fighting back and with the idea that they can defend themselves. This is very empowering to them, and it’s my favorite part of the work I do.
Since doing self-defense, I’ve also changed how I move through the world. I feel it makes me calmer, more situationally aware and harder to shake. Starting Fearless Future was my way to share that knowledge with my community and with people who need it most.
What are your long-term plans or goals for the organization?
Right now, I have two siblings who do self-defense classes. One is my younger brother, who is 14. I also have people from my Krav Maga Academy who are very involved in the project and who care deeply, as I do, about spreading self-defense.
I think that my brother, along with our ambassador at my Krav Maga center, are going to be the new face of Fearless Future. They are going to teach and inspire younger girls. The friends who have trained with me on the island where I live will keep running workshops, and I will come back and teach workshops as well. Miami is going to stay as our home base. I want to hand it off to my brother, who is then going to hand it off to my sister.
What’s been the most rewarding part of your work?
I watch how participants start the workshops hesitant and scared; they don’t like to think about danger as a whole. But as the workshops move forward, I see how they become different. They become very engaged, ask so many questions and just want to learn more.
What have you learned through your experiences volunteering?
I’ve learned to be a more personable instructor and adapt to the needs of different people, because different people truly have different needs. I’ve done workshops for young girls that are 6 or 7 years old, and then also for senior citizens. You have to adapt to different people when you’re teaching.
Lila, with ponytail and red belt holding pads, coaching a participant through a knee-strike drill during a workshop.
Why is it important for others, especially youth, to get involved with causes they care about?
I think it’s important because even if a young person thinks, “Oh, I’m not ready for this,” I believe that one life changed is enough. If you care about something, you start before you’re even ready. There is never going to be a perfect moment, and the hardest step is the first one. I would say just make a plan, ask for help and get it done. Do what you need to do, because if it’s something you care about, you should want to go out there and make that change for other people.
Any advice for people who want to start volunteering?
Start before you’re ready. There’s no perfect time. Just start. You can start small. You don’t have to do it alone; you’re never by yourself. You can ask friends or family for support. There are always going to be people who will support you and what you want to do. So just be curious, be open, ask questions and get right into it.
What do you want people to learn from your story?
I want to take away the stigma that just because you are smaller, less skilled or physically disadvantaged, that does not mean you are not able to defend yourself. I know that not everyone can participate in a Fearless Future workshop, but my encouragement is to just keep fighting.
