We are delighted to share a blog written by student Roma, from Coppell High School, who participated in the GSL World Catalyst @Home in February-March 2021.
A beautiful journey helping elevate those who need help, and humble myself in the process.
Project Summary
I’m so lucky to have grown up with so many resources around me. I have never had to worry about my safety or daily necessities a privilege that I didn’t fully understand until last a few years ago, a fault that I am ashamed to admit. I grew up heavily sheltered and when I learned about the extreme homeless crisis in America, where I live, I knew I had to do everything in my power to make a difference.
I started by replacing my birthday gifts with donations to give to the homeless, being able to create about 60 packs to give to homeless teens in my areas, but, with GSL I wanted to expand this vision to new horizons and create my own non-profit organization in order to generate donations and spread awareness. For my month-long mission, I posted a sticker paired with a fact about homelessness on my social media and Etsy shop every day. I collected money through sales and direct donations to create homeless packs.
The Journey
Although I have learned so much in this project, the main things that have stuck with me are time management and appreciation. Having to create a piece of artwork every day, meant having to make sure I plan my time correctly and create a time slot every night to prepare for the next morning. It was a very demanding project in terms of making sure I get everything done on a timely basis, but it taught me just as much. On the other hand, I learned to appreciate what I have. Searching up facts and learning about the hardships that so many others face on a daily basis, gave me a newfound love for what my family gives me. I’m so so lucky to be dealt the hand that I have, and I really want to be able to give that back to my community!
The Next Chapter
Of course, the first thing I want to do is collect all the donations and create the packs for donations. With exam season drawing near, my time has gotten quite crazy, but I need to allot time for donations. For the organization, I want to continue posting on my social media and Etsy shop and hopefully expand enough to register the project as a government-recognized non-profit organization and maybe even do a few pop-up shops in my city! For students, just like myself, my biggest piece of advice would be to just go for it. Don’t worry about planning out every last detail, jump in headfirst and figure out kinks on your way, it is the best way to make sure you do end up making an impact!
