An Update: Leadership in a Remote World

Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic prevented my Scooby-Doo Enthusiast’s Club from continuing into the 2020/2021 school year. However, plans for resuming next year (in hopes that the pandemic decelerates) are in the works. With the discussion-based meeting formula remaining, I hope to add an element of service next year that would allow our club’s members to work for various animal shelters. I’m still planning out the specific ways the club would be able to help, but I have high hopes we will be able to contribute something meaningful to our community.

Likewise, Spectrum (my school’s Gay Straight Alliance) has only been able to meet one to two times a month, but through consistent member participation we have been able to foster an environment that is welcoming and supportive. The name Spectrum comes from a desire for anonymity, allowing students to attend the club without worrying much about being outed by the yearbook, their peers, their teachers or their parents. During sessions, the club typically talks about LGBTQ+ issues in the world, in the school, and in each other’s personal lives. I co-founded this club with my friend Laura Reyes to strive for a safe and accepting environment for LGBTQ+ teenagers, who can feel isolated and alone at a small school.

This year I have set several personal service goals for myself, from volunteering at St. Mary’s food bank (an organization I have previously worked with during my time in NJHS), to running charity live streams on my Youtube channel, to holding a charity auction for collectible Thomas items I have refrained from selling in my resale business. 

I am so fortunate to have received vast support from the world around me, and through these goals I hope to give back to the community as best I can!