Growing up in a small town as the youngest of five, I learned the value of community and the importance of helping others. My parents emphasized the importance of responsibility and giving back. Those lessons have stuck with me and shaped my journey through college and my future goals. As I prepare for a career in law, I’ve realized that meaningful change begins not only in the courtroom but also in our communities, through small actions that reflect care, empathy, and a commitment to making a difference.

Finding Purpose Through Volunteering

Volunteering has been a part of my life since I was young. My dad would take me to help build houses with Habitat for Humanity. Habitat’s vision is of a world where everyone has a decent place to live. This thought has stuck with me, as I believe all individuals deserve a place that is safe and comfortable to call home.

I’ve been involved in various community projects, but one experience that has had the biggest impact on me is volunteering at the Freestore Foodbank. Every week, I help families access groceries and essential supplies, and each interaction reminds me that even small acts of service can make a big difference.

Volunteering has taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of active listening. Many people I meet are facing challenges that I cannot relate to, and being able to provide some support in their time of need has been incredibly rewarding. These experiences also fuel my desire to pursue a career where I can advocate for individuals who face societal barriers, particularly those who are often overlooked due to their background and circumstances. Giving back to my community has shown me that change is possible when compassion is combined with action.

Connecting Volunteering with Legal Advocacy

While volunteering provides immediate help, I’ve also become increasingly interested in the bigger picture: legal reform and advocacy. Over time, I’ve learned that some of the challenges families face—such as access to resources, housing, or fair treatment—are deeply connected to policy and law. This realization is what drives my ambition. I want to help create systems that provide opportunities for everyone and ensure that people are treated fairly, particularly those in vulnerable situations.

One area I’m especially passionate about is prisoner rights and rehabilitation. Many people in the justice system face significant barriers to reintegration, education, and fair treatment. By addressing systemic issues, anyone can contribute to creating long-term change that extends far beyond individual acts of service. I plan to advocate for reforms that give people a second chance and support their growth.

Inspiring Others and Creating Change

Another aspect of community advocacy that excites me is the opportunity to inspire others. Young people can make a significant impact. Whether it’s encouraging peers to volunteer, organizing local initiatives, or sharing stories about community needs, advocacy can take many forms. Change doesn’t always have to be big or dramatic; consistent small actions will inspire more people to get involved.

I’ve also learned that listening is just as essential as acting. Engaging with people in the community, understanding their needs, and amplifying their voices are crucial components of effective advocacy, ensuring that efforts are meaningful and respectful. For me, advocacy isn’t about recognition; it’s about contributing to something larger than myself and helping create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Ultimately, giving back to the community and working toward legal reform are connected. One teaches patience, compassion, and awareness of real-world challenges, while the other provides tools and strategies to address systemic issues. By pursuing both, I aim to contribute to meaningful and lasting change. I believe dedication, service, and learning can come together to create a future where justice and opportunity are accessible to all.