Why I serve people in need, by Gigi Walravens

April 24, 2024

By Gigi Walravens

April 2024

I serve people in need because I believe in the power of human connection to transform both communities and individuals. As President of Teen Service Corps, I’ve witnessed firsthand how a small group of dedicated high school volunteers can create ripple effects of positive change throughout Marin County and beyond.

When I first joined Teen Service Corps, I saw it as a chance to build my college resume. But that perspective quickly changed after our project at St. Anthony Foundation in San Francisco’s Tenderloin district. Together with my fellow volunteers, I spent a day preparing 1,100 meals for those experiencing homelessness. As we chopped vegetables, stirred pots, and plated food, I realized this wasn’t just about feeding people—it was about dignity and recognition. Looking into the eyes of those we served, I saw individuals with stories, struggles, and resilience. That day fundamentally changed how I view service.

Since becoming President, I’ve worked to foster partnerships with organizations like Habitat for Humanity, Bridge the Gap, and St. Vincent de Paul. Last winter, in conjunction with Co-President Jamie Glennon, we organized a “Letters of Hope” campaign, where we wrote personalized messages to children facing challenging circumstances. Seeing how such a simple act could bring joy to a child struggling with illness or family difficulties reinforced my belief that service is about more than just meeting material needs—it’s about emotional connection. Beach cleanups have become another cornerstone of our work. Last September, I coordinated 25 volunteers to remove over 200 pounds of trash from local shorelines. While picking up plastic bottles and cigarette butts might seem small compared to global environmental challenges, I know that consistent, community-based action creates both immediate impact and long-term awareness.

The service project closest to my heart is our monthly Bingo Night at a local senior living facility. I’ll never forget Ms. Eleanor, an 87-year-old resident who confided that our visits were the highlight of her month. “You young people bring the outside world in with you,” she told me. Those words taught me that service isn’t always about solving big problems—sometimes it’s simply about being present for someone who feels forgotten.

Through Teen Service Corps, I’ve developed leadership skills, empathy, and a deeper understanding of social issues facing my community. I’ve also deepened my faith and my hope in humanity. I see how small efforts can make a difference in people’s lives. As Mother Teresa of Calcutta so aptly said, “Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.” To me, true service means seeing the humanity in everyone and recognizing that any one of us could find ourselves in need of help someday. I serve people in need because it reminds me that we are all connected in this human experience, and that by lifting others, we ultimately lift ourselves.