In the past year of my volunteer journey, I’ve really embraced an ancient Chinese saying: “Don’t underestimate the power of doing good, no matter how small the act.” This proverb has truly come alive for me as I’ve seen firsthand how even the tiniest acts of kindness can make a huge impact on our community.

Through my involvement with the volunteer activities organized by the Food Lounge Austin, I’ve been humbled by what we can achieve when we all pitch in. We’ve tackled big issues like homelessness and hunger by making food for those in need and organizing food drives.

It’s been way more than just providing meals – it’s about building connections and understanding. These small gestures don’t just fill stomachs; they bring back hope and dignity to people who really need it. Seeing how a simple hot meal can change someone’s day has shown me how much good we can do by being kind.

Then there’s the ACAN cultural festival I jumped into by helping out with the game booth and playing music for guests. The ACAN cultural festival was a big success in our local community, drawing in hundreds of guests with its impressive displays, spectacular performances, and loads of fun. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work and selflessness of the volunteers, and I’m honored to have been part of the team. I’ve learned how important it is to keep our heritage alive. Spreading the love for Chinese culture has brought different folks together and created a space where everyone can learn, play, and share. From traditional stuff to cool games, we’ve celebrated it all. And this celebration has made our community even stronger, with people feeling like they truly belong no matter where they’re from.

Furthermore, coaching the middle school math club has been an incredibly fulfilling experience. Week after week, I rose at 7am every Thursday to head over to Canyon Vista Middle School, where I took on the role of an assistant coach for the MathCounts club. My responsibilities included facilitating group study sessions, inspiring fellow math enthusiasts to hone their skills as adept problem solvers and innovative thinkers. Being someone who has personally benefited from volunteer coaching, I saw this as the most effective way to pay it forward and contribute back to our community.

I’m totally convinced that all these little good deeds add up to something big. From dishing out food to sharing culture and sparking curiosity in students, I’ve learned that volunteering isn’t just about giving your time. It’s about leaving a lasting impact that goes beyond our time and spreads to others. So, whether it’s helping out the community or keeping traditions alive, I’ve seen firsthand how we can make amazing things happen when we team up with heart and purpose.