On International Volunteer Day, we celebrate the power of community action and the remarkable young people who help drive it forward. At Girls Inc., every day, girl leaders spark meaningful change in their schools, neighborhoods, and beyond. For Volunteer Day we honor the impact of their work and highlight the ways girls are making a difference. Below, you’ll find stories from some of our Girls Inc. Brand Ambassadors on the ways they give back to their communities.  

Ariel, Girls Inc. of Orange County – My community, such as Girls Inc., has given me so many opportunities, and I can’t think of a better way to thank them than by giving back through volunteering. Over Thanksgiving break, I assembled Puberty Kits for girls, so they have access to resources they may not get otherwise. Small actions, like spending three hours organizing food or teaching kids how a paper airplane works, can make a big difference. I hope you find a way to contribute to your community, even if it’s just for a day. 

Naiyya, Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta – Mentoring at Girls Inc. has given me the skills and confidence to give back beyond the program. By supporting younger girls, I learned how to communicate with patience, lead with empathy, and create a sense of belonging—skills I now bring into my own community. These experiences encouraged me to volunteer at my local senior home center, where I use the same communication and leadership skills to connect with residents. Girls Inc. didn’t just help me grow as a mentor; it gave me the tools to make a positive impact wherever I go. 

Leila, Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis – My sophomore year, as a part of a student visionaries program, I volunteered to run a fundraising campaign on behalf of the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. During this six-month program, I was responsible for planning and organizing a fundraising campaign for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. This was a new and challenging experience, and I learned the value of being able to give back, bring people together, and the opportunity for personal growth. 

Valeria, Girls Inc. of Tarrant County – In Texas, there is a program called Fort Worth Sister Cities International, where along with 8 other cities, they host global exchanges and host diplomatic events to learn more about the cultures around us. I served as the Public Relations officer for the youth board . In the picture below, I got to represent thee youth of Fort Worth by volunteering at the Mayor’s Annual Dinner by holding the flags.  

Joined by my friend, Nara, holding the flags of Fort Worth’s Sister Cities. 

Berklee, Girls Inc. of Philadelphia and Southern NJ – Volunteering has been a meaningful way for me to connect with my community and make a positive impact. Once a month, my family and I volunteer at a local farm that helps feed families in need. Whether we’re harvesting produce, sorting donations, or tending to the chickens, the experience reminds us of the power of small acts of service. It’s a wonderful opportunity to give back, spend time together, and support a cause that truly nourishes our community. 
 

Shreya, Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region – Volunteering has always been a part of who I am, but Girls Inc. is what helped turn that passion into a real, lasting impact. Last year, I founded GleeBoxx, my nonprofit dedicated to creating gift-style care boxes that remind people in need they are human first, deserving dignity, joy, and kindness. In just one year, I completed eight drives and delivered over 500 boxes. Each box was packed with love and meant to make someone feel seen. Girls Inc. helped me believe in my ability to create change, and because of that, GleeBoxx has grown into a project rooted in compassion, community, and the belief that even the smallest box can make someone smile. 

Belen, Girls Inc. of San Diego – Volunteering in my church’s children’s ministry has taught me what it means to lead with patience, empathy, and courage. I began helping when I was just eight years old, and over the years, I’ve grown up as a leader who supports families and creates a welcoming space for kids. These experiences have shaped my desire to pursue a career in pediatrics and give back to my community. Volunteering has shown me that smart, strong, and bold leadership starts with using your time to care for others. I am committed to continuing to use these skills to create a positive change wherever I go.  

Thank you to all of our Brand Ambassadors for sharing their volunteer experience! As we recognize International Volunteer Day, we’re reminded that every act of service—big or small—helps build stronger, more connected communities. Girls Inc. continues to uplift girl leaders who use their strong, smart, and bold voices to inspire change, and your stories are an essential part of that movement.