John Siewers discussed his involvement in the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond. Living in a city with 15,000 youth who live in poverty, he sleeps well knowing he is helping a worthwhile cause that provides a safe haven for at-risk students after school, as well as mentors. “The most important thing is the amazing staff that helps kids build confidence and take control of their lives to provide hope, to see and work toward a brighter future to break the cycle of poverty,” he said. He urged students to go forward, find their role and make an impact. “You don’t have to volunteer the most hours or be the lead of an organization to be successful. You just have to do your part.”

Rand DuPriest said the worst day of his life, when his 19-year-old brother Tad was killed driving a school van, translated to some of the best days of his life. His friends started a foundation in his brother’s honor, now called Tad’s Kids, which hosts several events a year. “All we have in this world is each other,” said Rand. “We’ve got to help each other.” Studies show, he said, that people involved in service on a regular basis have lower depression rates, live longer and have a better sense of well being.

Jim Baber’s passion is helping families and children with cancer. After his classmate Chris Cullather died from brain cancer in 1992, he vowed to help families going through treatment. He ultimately started a foundation that chose ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation as its charity partner. Jim noted that his academic achievements were not noted in introductory remarks and communicated that someone doesn’t have to be the brightest student or sports captain to make a difference. “You just need passion and desire,” he said. “Surround yourself with good people and don’t be afraid to ask questions.”

James Parker’s commitment to service has evolved over the years as he has learned to get a better grasp of what service means as part of his everyday life. He encouraged students to share their strengths and talents, using as inspiration in his own life his mother, a devoted community volunteer, and UVA basketball coach Tony Bennett, who holds servanthood as one of five pillars of his team’s success. “Don’t worry about the titles or credit,” James said. “Embrace your current role. Commit yourself to the task at hand, that’s a commitment to service… Our mission is to share our gifts and give to one another.”