Here is how the project went:
On August 14th, 400 volunteers came together to serve 650 individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness in the greater Seattle area at a Covid-safe, summer edition of Hope Festival 2021. Guests received free groceries, hygiene supplies, clothing, toys for the kids, books, and more. Local service providers offered personal services including HIV testing, glaucoma screenings & free eyeglass, dental screenings, hearing screenings, Covid vaccinations, pet vaccinations, and more. Guests connected with local agencies providing long-term care at the Connection Center, local employers came to hire on the spot, and Seattle Humane Society brought six kittens to cuddle with guests in the kitten cuddle booth. Several lucky raffle winners even walked away with a brand-new laptop, bicycle, or gift basket. Guests and volunteers alike left with a newfound sense of hope
Through this project I/we learned:
We couldn’t be prouder to once again show how youth leaders are capable of being the change we wish to see in the world. We were able to do what even the City of Seattle couldn’t—run a safe, in-person, resource exchange event. During this time of extreme need amidst the pandemic, we are extremely proud to have been able to safely provide valuable supplies and services to those in need across the greater Seattle area. As a group of students running our nonprofit and this annual event, we are no stranger to obstacles coming our way. This year was different, however—we were required to take on the roles of public health officials as we worked to plan and execute an event that was safe for all 1,050 volunteers and guests alike. We are incredibly proud that we were able to do just. It is just another embodiment of the truth that age is just a number, and youth are truly capable of being the change we wish to see in the world. Once again, we were reaffirmed that age is just a number, and that if you are truly determined to make something happen, all you have to do is get started and put in the work to make it happen.
What I/we might change:
While many of the most challenging aspects of this project were due to situations out of our control, if we were do to this project again in a similar COVID situation, I think we might give ourselves more time to build out the countless, miniscule--yet critical--logistics for this project. Especially in a COVID world, consideration of every single detail is absolutely imperative. Taking even more time to make sure every detail is locked down would never hurt.
My/our favorite part of this project was:
. In speaking with guests at the event, our mission of running a service event that left people with a sense of hope was achieved. One woman, who’s little girl had just won the brand-new bicycle she had her eyes on during the raffle, said that she now finally had a way to transport herself to school this next year. Another family thanked us for the opportunity to receive Covid vaccinations as well as a wide range of supplies and services for every member of their family. It is these individual stories of hope that remind us how important our work is, and moreover, how important the little things are.
Some tips, tricks or fun facts about the project:
The hardest part is getting started. Surround yourself with mentors, supporters, and people who inspire you--your support system is one of your greatest assets. Never be afraid to ask for help. Delegation is key. Grit is everything. Lean into the WORK.
