1. What is your school and grade? Also, how long have you been involved with Hands4Hope?
I’m a senior at Oak Ridge High School and I will be finishing out my 4th year with Hands4Hope.
2. Why did you join Hands4Hope?
I joined Hands4Hope quite honestly because I needed something to do that wasn’t a sport (because I have 0 hand-eye coordination). What I didn’t know at the time was that it would become one of the most important parts of my life.
3.What have you learned through your experiences with Hands4Hope?
Hands4Hope has definitely taught me how to speak in public, coordinate meetings, communicate effectively with my peers as well as adults, and how to manage my time for the best possible output. All of these skills can and will be put to great use in my future!
4. What has your experience been like since joining?
I have made some of my closest friends through Hands4Hope, and together we have done great things for the community. The fact that I was able to learn and grow while helping other people was eye-opening and life changing, and I don’t think I would have gotten that kind of experience anywhere else.
5. During the COVID-19 crisis, what do you miss most about Hands4Hope?
I miss being able to meet with the Youth Board and plan our benefit dinner. While it is very disappointing that we won’t be able to see our efforts come to fruition, I’m glad we have the resources to be able to communicate through technology in order to keep each other safe. In the end that is the most important thing.
6. What are your plans as you graduate high school?
In the fall of 2020 I will be attending San Diego State University. There I hope to find a nonprofit that I can help with in order to continue the philanthropic journey I’ve started with Hands4Hope.
7. Is there anything else that you would like to add about your experiences with Hands4Hope?
Hands4Hope has been so important in my life, and I’m not sure who I would be without it. I’d like to thank everyone in this organization who got me to where I am today. To all my adult leaders, and all of my peers in the leadership league, thank you for being there for me and pushing me to be my best self :)