How small acts of service scale into real outcomes globally

Hasini Guntipalli

ELSA SKOGEN

I became a writer, advocate, and changemaker as a young teen because I realized how empowered I feel when there are resources to strengthen communities and yourself through service. I’ve dedicated myself to connecting people with impactful volunteer opportunities around the world.
As president of Connect With Cause, a nonprofit focused on volunteering, and as an officer for the Business Professionals of America, I get to promote civic engagement and mentor emerging leaders – roles that constantly inspire me and deepen my commitment to service.
Serving on the Youth Advisory Board for Reach for Resources and the Minnesota Youth Council allows me to speak up for young people directly. I testify on important bills related to mental health, substance use prevention, and fostering community connections – issues I care deeply about. History has always felt vital to me, not only as a subject but as the foundation for meaningful change, which is why I also serve on the student advisory council for the Gilder Lehrman Institute.
Writing is how I make sense of the world and share the stories that inspire me most. I’ve been writing about servanthood since middle school, and now I’m proud to be the author of "33 Journeys." This book highlights stories of young people from across the globe who have worked tirelessly to make the world better, especially for those who are less fortunate. It’s more than just a collection of stories – it’s a call to action, a testament to how service transforms lives, both for the giver and the receiver. Additionally I also write for Can Do Canines, to highlight the transformative impact of assistance dogs.
My passion for service isn’t only reflected in my extracurricular work. I’ve been working to publish research exploring how volunteering impacts job satisfaction and corporate turnover in large U.S. companies – work that will appear in the Journal of Student Research. I was also honored by the Minnesota Alliance for Volunteer Advancement, to share this research.
As a Taekwondo black belt and a bilingual Gold Seal recipient in Spanish, achievements I have learned the value of focus and perseverance. But my commitment to service began even earlier – raising funds for children’s heart health in elementary school, leading international outreach efforts in high school – each experience building the foundation of who I am today.
Ultimately, I hope everything I do – whether through research, advocacy, or writing – encourages other young people to find their own personal calling. I want them to see that meaningful change is within their reach, especially when they connect with causes they are passionate about.

About '33 Journeys'
"33 Journeys" is a collection of inspiring stories from communities around the world and the youths who have made a difference through their service.
Each story highlights a unique project or initiative, demonstrating how acts of volunteerism can create meaningful change for both those giving and receiving. From local community efforts to international outreach, this book emphasizes the fulfillment, connection, and lasting impact that come from selfless service, thus encouraging readers to discover their own path to making a difference in today’s world.
Olivia, a 22-year-old student from the Bronx, entered her year abroad with a scholarship and a suitcase, only to find herself standing in a freezing refugee camp weeks later, holding a box of teddy bears and listening to a mother of seven describe the moment her world exploded. A woman who lost her home, her family, and her past – but still found a way to keep healing others.
Across "33 Journeys," you will meet people who traded comfort to walk into the unknown. A teacher who walked across borders to build a school. A homeless teen who put a roof over countless heads.
These are stories of broken plans that became breakthroughs. Of people who stepped off the map and into someone’s life, not knowing they would never be the same again.
"33 Journeys" isn’t just about service – it’s about how the smallest act can bend the arc of a life. Perhaps even yours.
Hasini Guntipalli serves on the statewide Minnesota Youth Council and is a senior at Wayzata High School.