Service is such an important way that you can give back to those around you. I have had the opportunity to provide service to local animal shelters, Vacation Bible School camps, Puerto Rico I Love You, and through Emily’s Book Boxes. Working in my community is one of my favorite things to do. I love the feeling that the work we’re doing is bringing up everyone, whether it be providing comfort to the cats at the shelter, or helping to improve literacy through books. By using our time and resources to give back to others, we make the community, and life, better for everyone.
Emily's Book Boxes: Making sure that other children and families have access to books is so important to me. I grew up in a household where getting tucked into bed with a book was normal. I have such great memories of reading books while snuggling with my mom. I would love for all children in Puerto Rico to have that same experience. We have had the pleasure of donating children's books to Casa De la Bondad, Albergue San Miguel Del Coqui, Casa Ronald McDonald, and others. I was able to purchase and donate books by raising money through a bake sale. To learn more about my project visit Emilysbookboxes.com
Puerto Rico, I Love You: a “pay it forward” movement committed to inspiring acts of kindness, providing aid and community empowerment, and preserving the beauty of Puerto Rico. I was chosen as a teen ambassador to bring together kids in our community for a common mission. I love being able to work outdoors on beautiful farms helping farmers plant trees, repair barns, and clear land. The best part is getting to work with a community of people towards the goal of helping local farmers produce food for their families and community. To learn about this important mission, visit PRiloveyou.com.
Costa Rica Service Trip: In January of 2024 I visited Costa Rica for a service mission. I learned about Costa Rican culture and met interesting people from the village around us. I got to work outdoors, where we completed several meters of walking trail, planted trees and created trail signs, all aimed towards promoting eco-tourism.
Wyldlife Leadership Team: Wyldlife is a social group that helps middle schoolers learn more about God through games and fun events with friends. Everyone from all walks of life is always welcome and it is amazing to see kids come together. I love helping out at Wyldlife because I am actively changing the lives of middle schoolers who may need a friend to talk to and hang out with. It doesn’t hurt that my friends also help out with me – and that we also get to learn more about God with others.
