As President of the Syracuse University Volunteer Organization (SUVO), I founded and led the execution of an on-campus volunteer event in collaboration with the nonprofit organization Sleep in Heavenly Peace for two consecutive years, expanding its scale and impact.
In 2024, over 100 volunteers gathered and built 44 beds for children in Syracuse who were currently sleeping on the floor. Determined to grow the event’s impact, I dedicated the next year to planning it again. For the 2025 build I collaborated with eight student organizations to raise over $22,000. We successfully expanded the initiative to 200 volunteers building 88 beds… a 100% increase from the year prior.
While leading this initiative I strengthened my leadership, organization, communication and interpersonal skills. More importantly, I witnessed the power of collaboration. This event reinforced my belief that meaningful change happens when people come together.
Overall, the collaboration between Sleep in Heavenly Peace and the Syracuse University Volunteer Organization was a remarkable testament to the power of community engagement. Through planning, dedication and the invaluable support of my mentors and peers, we were able to make a difference in the lives of children in need within the Syracuse area.
Media Coverage:
2025 SU Today: University Community, Sleep in Heavenly Peace Build 88 Beds for Local Children
2024 SU Today: Volunteers Build 44 Beds for Community Children in Need
Click image to view Instagram Reel Interview
Syracuse.com: Syracuse University students volunteer to build 88 beds for children in need
NewsChannel 9 WSYR: SU and Sleep in Heavenly Peace team up to build beds for children in need
CNY Central: Syracuse University students build beds for kids with Sleep in Heavenly Peace
Below are the press releases I sent out to generate news coverage.
Reflection
In reflecting on the journey of organizing and executing this event, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and pride. As I witnessed Syracuse students come together in support of a common cause, I was reminded of the beautiful potential we possess to enact positive change in the community we live in. In addition, this experience was a beautiful way to apply the skills I learned in the classroom into tangible impact. Moving forward, I carry with me not only the memories of the bed-build but also a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to serving others.
To view my 2025 reflection click here
To view my 2024 reflection click here
To listen to my reflection on this work and my work at the Mary Ann Shaw Center for Public and Community Service: click the image below
