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Have you ever been part of something that feels almost too good to be true? That’s exactly how I feel about volunteering with the Healthy Downriver Coalition. What started out as a single event I attended with my school has grown into one of the most meaningful parts of my life.
My journey began in April of 2024 when I attended Advocacy Day at Michigan’s Capitol in Lansing. I was there as a member of my school’s Student Council and SADD Club, not realizing at the time how important that day would be for me. The event was supported by the coalition (then known as SUDDS) and it gave me my first chance to meet some of the wonderful people involved.
That first interaction soon led to an invitation I’ll never forget: I was asked to serve on a youth panel at the coalition’s annual Substance Use and Mental Health Town Hall. Public speaking was not my strongest skill at the time, but saying yes was the first step in a journey that would change my confidence, my perspective, and even my career goals.
After that Town Hall, I was fascinated by the coalition’s mission and wanted to get more involved. Following a few emails back and forth, I officially began volunteering in the summer of 2024.
First Impressions
From the very beginning, I felt welcomed. On my first day at the office, I was greeted by kind faces and given a tour (something that has now become one of my favorite things to do for new volunteers). It was clear right away that this was more than just an organization; it was a community.
That summer, my work included a wide variety of tasks: making calls, designing flyers, researching legislation in Lansing, and helping to plan community events. I was fortunate to have other youth volunteers alongside me, and working together made every project more fun and engaging.
Skills and Growth
Before joining the coalition, I had never had anything close to a job. This was my first real experience in a professional environment, and I used it as an opportunity to learn everything I could. I developed skills in writing professional emails, calling businesses and organizations, managing projects, and collaborating with others. These lessons have already benefited me in school and in other parts of my life.
But my favorite part of volunteering was seeing the impact of our work. One highlight was helping plan our Summer Wind Down event, a back-to-school celebration where we handed out backpacks, made crafts, and created a fun environment for kids in the community. Watching their faces light up that day reminded me why this work matters and gave me a sense of pride in what we accomplished together.
A New Perspective
Going into that first summer, I only had a basic understanding of issues like substance use, alcohol, and teen mental health. Through the coalition, I gained a much broader perspective. I saw real-time data from my community, brainstormed ways to address problems, and had open discussions about the challenges our schools face. That experience allowed me to approach my own school community with more understanding and compassion, and it opened my eyes to the bigger picture of what young people are struggling with.
Staying Involved
Everyone who knows me knows I’m involved in many activities, around 8 clubs at school, plus other volunteer work. Because of that, I didn’t expect to stay with the coalition once the school year began. But the work was so meaningful, and the people so kind and supportive, that I couldn’t imagine leaving. I found myself coming back about every other week, balancing coalition work with my busy schedule.
One of the best things about being a youth volunteer is the flexibility. I can contribute from the office or from home, depending on what I have going on. The senior members have always gone out of their way to support me, making sure my work is accessible and helping me whenever I need clarification. The environment is so positive that some days I don’t even want to leave when it’s time to go.
A Family Atmosphere
The coalition doesn’t just feel like a workplace, it feels like family. People genuinely care about how I’m doing, both inside and outside of school. We take breaks to share meals, grab coffee, or even go on fun boba runs together. Those little moments have meant just as much as the big projects because they’ve made me feel truly connected.
One example of this kindness stands out especially. In April 2025, my stepmother passed away. It was also the middle of SAT season and AP testing, so I had to take a month and a half away from volunteering. I came back feeling overwhelmed, but when I walked into the office, everyone welcomed me with warmth and gave me a card that I still keep on my desk at home. It was a small gesture, but it showed how much they cared. This reminded me that this coalition is more than an organization. It’s a support system.
Youth Voices Matter
This past summer, one of my close friends Jessica became a youth volunteer, and alongside other youth volunteers we started brainstorming ways to make our youth contributions even stronger. One of the best parts about being a youth member is the autonomy we’re given. While we’re often given a direction, we usually get to figure out the details ourselves, which encourages creativity and independence.
I’ve seen so many amazing ideas come from other youth members. These ideas I never would have thought of myself. That mix of perspectives adds a fun and dynamic energy to the coalition. Even tasks like moving offices became memorable when we worked together. I’ll never forget packing boxes with music blasting, laughing with friends, and turning what could have been boring work into one of the highlights of my summer.
Looking Ahead
Out of everything I’m involved in, volunteering with the Healthy Downriver Coalition has been the most rewarding. It has shaped my skills, my perspective, and even my future career goals. Because of my time here, I now want to pursue degrees in psychology and political science so I can do advocacy and governmental work to help people in my community.
Now, as a senior in high school, I’m grateful for the extra benefits too. Access to scholarship guidance, volunteer hours, and professional experience that will prepare me for college and beyond. But more than that, I’m grateful for the confidence this work has given me. From nervously speaking on a panel in 2024 to confidently emceeing the 2025 Substance Use and Mental Health Town Hall, I’ve seen firsthand how much I’ve grown.
A Final Message
If there’s one message I could share with my peers, it’s this: I cannot recommend volunteering with the Healthy Downriver Coalition enough. Of all the organizations I’ve been part of, none have offered me as much joy, growth, and opportunity.
Volunteering here has not only allowed me to help my community but has also helped me grow into a stronger, more open-minded, and more confident person. I’ve learned that making a difference doesn’t always require huge actions; it's about showing up, supporting others, and using your voice to create change.
I am proud to be part of this coalition, and I can’t wait to continue this journey.
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