Hodge Legacy Community Service Scholarship

In times where people struggle with something daily whether it be financially, mentally, or even physically, the act of volunteering is about making a difference that can change lives and is essential when it comes to strengthening a community. Engaging in acts of volunteerism is about more than just doing the act for hours; it is about creating positive effects in someone else's life that can touch them and uplift them through what they might be going through. One of the most profound ways I actively participate in volunteerism in my community is through the SEWA Detroit Lead program, a community service group dedicated to leadership development and a strong sense of inspiration and motivation through the world. As a member of this group, I am involved in its activities that include blood drives, fundraisers, food service, and toy and school supply drives. Living in the Detroit area, the community is faced with many problems such as poverty, lack of health care, educational and environmental inequalities, and much more. Participating in this program gave me the tools to not only help lift the community back up but also gave me inspiration and a pathway to helping in my own ways. As someone with aspirations of becoming both a businesswoman and a surgeon, insight of being a part of this nonprofit organization fostered my idea of opening nonprofit clinics dedicated to providing affordable and quality health care to those in need. Lack of basic health care in Detroit is one of the main problems this city faces, creating clinics can help out the community by taking off the stress of financial issues and health issues all in one. In addition to healthcare, I also plan to open a one stop beauty shop that provides services such as hairstylists, makeup artists, and nail and lash extensions. Self care often comes as a luxury to one and discourages people from taking care of themselves because they simply can not afford it. This can have a drastic effect on their mental health and self esteem. Offering an affordable and welcoming space where people can feel good about themselves and not feel as if they are wasting money will help the community gain confidence and a sense of well-being. By offering these services at accessible prices or even for free in certain cases, I hope to help individuals from all walks of life improve their self-esteem and feel empowered. Volunteering is a powerful agent for change that can affect anyone's entire communities as well as their lives. My participation with the SEWA Detroit Lead program has given me insight to the effectiveness of doing such acts and with this knowledge I am inspired to give back to the Detroit community in my own ways that will help mentally and physically.