Meet Laila: Youth Champion for Hope

Today, we’re chatting with Laila Sibley, a long-time YouthServe leader who has spent two years in Youth Action Council (YAC) and is in her second year of Youth Philanthropy Council (YPC). She was also one of our new Summer Service Ambassadors this past summer, and frequently volunteers at our Service Days. Let’s see what Laila has to say about her time with YouthServe, and why it has been such an important—and hopeful—experience for her.

What has been the most impactful part of serving with YouthServe?
Laila: The most impactful part of serving with YouthServe is all the different people that I have met. Over the years, I have met so many people passionate about some of the same things that attend schools just across the mountain from me. I have made some really good friends that I may have never met without YouthServe.

In what way(s) do you feel YouthServe has helped you to grow in community leadership?
Laila: YouthServe has allowed me to make the people around me more conscious of our community and its needs. Learning about different nonprofits and being able to serve them by volunteering has shown me the communities outside of my own, and has allowed me to talk to people within my community about how we can help others.

What is a favorite organization that you’ve had the chance to serve with during your time in YouthServe? Could you say a little bit about what they do, and your experience with them?
Laila: A favorite organization that I have had the chance to serve with is the Community Care Development Network. They focus on families by providing different programs like food, clothing, educational, and financial guidance. I was able to first work with them in 2022 at YouthServe’s Urban Service Camp. We went to their building and were able to help them package things and unload and stock their food storage. It was interesting to talk with the director about some of the things she sees and how impactful something like food assistance can be on a family.

Would you say your time in YouthServe has given you hope for your community and for your future?
Laila: Yes, it has opened my eyes to so many topics and perspectives that I have never thought of before and I plan to take that into my future. With philanthropic efforts and the importance of giving back to the community, whether it be money, time, or talent. I think YouthServe is such a cool opportunity and I think that it will grow to be so much more with even more students who want to help Birmingham in the future.

What would you say to someone who is interested in getting involved with YouthServe as a participant or supporter?
Laila: I would tell them to try it, there are so many different opportunities to get involved with, and you can make a real difference in your community, even if you can’t commit a lot of time to it. It’s a very cool place where you are able to have control and have conversations on topics that you and your fellow peers are passionate about. Plus, Ms. Jennifer makes really good hot chocolate!

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