Lauryn Wright

Looking from the outside in, I'm a very kind soul, and for anyone who I've had the pleasure of meeting says I have a very bubbly and outgoing personality. My friends describe me as energetic and reliable, but I'm best known for having a “helping hand” and a passion that resides in volunteer work. The thing I enjoy most is being able to give back to my community by participating in volunteer events, whether that is through school clubs or during my free time. Throughout school, I made sure my extracurricular activities reflected my passion for giving back to the community. As a member of Habitat for Humanity, I help build houses so families have a place to call home. Being a member of Beta club, I assist other students with academic and financial needs. For example, the Spartan Drive, where we take younger kids shopping to meet some needs of their households (food, clothes, toys, etc.). Annually, I participate in events conducted at my church such as The Back to School Drive, where I help underprivileged families get school supplies by preparing backpacks for school. Taking part in community service projects also allows me to help make change to important social issues. Community service can advocate a cause I'm passionate about, which is to continue on my journey of helping and advocating for children in poverty. One of my favorite ways to give back to children in need, is by participating in the annual community Christmas Drive. This is where my peers and I wrap hundreds of presents and give single parents who can't afford presents the ability to give their children the joy and memory of opening presents on Christmas day. This event also provides health, dental, beauty services, necessities like food baskets, clothing, and even automotive services for families who can’t afford it or have access to these services. I never realized how widespread and serious poverty is in some communities and the lifelong effects it can have on children. Being a part of this event, every year has opened my eyes to the social issue of poverty for families, particularly children. I plan to continue this path and not only continue this project but involve myself in many more. Overall, I will always be involved in community service because it is important to do work that will benefit others and bring awareness to social issues, which makes for an overall rewarding experience.