A Commitment to Service and Growth
Jiyu Shin, a student at Archbishop Mitty High School, demonstrated an exceptional dedication to community service in 2025, completing over 100 hours of volunteer work across multiple programs. Her service journey reflects compassion, leadership, and a desire to make a lasting difference in the lives of others.
One of her most meaningful experiences was with Faith in Action, a two-week summer program designed to support local communities through hands-on service. Jiyu participated in beach cleanups to protect coastal environments, prepared and distributed meals for individuals facing food insecurity, and organized food drives to help those in need. She also crafted blankets for children in hospitals, bringing comfort and warmth to young patients.
Through these activities, Jiyu connected deeply with her community, sharing her values of kindness, respect, and service with everyone she met.
Mentorship and Faith-Based Leadership
Beyond Faith in Action, Jiyu took on mentorship and leadership roles that allowed her to grow as both a teacher and a role model. She served for one week as a Catholic church camp counselor at Holy Korean Martyrs Catholic Church, guiding kindergarten and first-grade students.
During the camp, Jiyu helped plan activities, set up stations, and ensured that the children enjoyed a safe, joyful, and faith-filled experience. She taught lessons about God and kindness, combining creativity and compassion to make each moment meaningful. Her joyful spirit and faithful service left a lasting impression on the young campers and her fellow leaders alike.
Empowering Youth Through Taekwondo
In addition to her community and faith-based service, Jiyu also volunteered as a Taekwondo instructor, teaching children essential life values such as discipline, respect, self-control, and perseverance. Through martial arts, she inspired confidence and focus in her students while strengthening her own sense of leadership and patience.
Lessons in Leadership and Compassion
Through these combined experiences, Jiyu discovered that leadership is not about authority—it’s about trust, service, and connection. Each act of service deepened her understanding of empathy and responsibility, shaping her into a well-rounded and compassionate leader.
Her work stands as a shining example of how young volunteers can make meaningful contributions to their communities while growing personally and spiritually along the way.
Celebrating Youth Leaders Who Inspire Change
At the Global Volunteer Recognition Program, we proudly honor volunteers like Jiyu Shin, who embody dedication, leadership, and kindness in every act of service. Her story reminds us that even small efforts can lead to great change and that true leadership begins with a heart to serve.