We are only high school students; what can we really do to make a difference? This question is asked by young students all over the globe. Although the world is too vast to make a difference everywhere, it is not hard for students to make a difference in the world around themselves.

Ryan Tufts, 11, has found his service calling at an organization in Lower Price Hill called Community Matters. As stated on their website, “[Community Matters’] driving goal is to remove barriers to opportunity. Our programs are designed to empower people to create opportunities, engage the community in the development process, create ways to serve together, and re-build the local economy through social entrepreneurship.”

“I’ve done a lot of volunteering in the past, and my favorite organization is Community Matters. It provides those in poverty with so many necessities like affordable clothing, grocery store-esque food, toiletries, and even schooling,” Tufts said.

Tufts began working with the organization the summer before his sophomore year. He found out about this opportunity to make a difference in his community while doing a service learning program.

“I love this organization not only because of the ultimately important necessities it provides, but also because I can converse with such amazing people. The homeless community gets such a bad reputation, like they are ‘lazy,’ ‘drunkards,’ or ‘dangerous’ etc., but talking with people experiencing homelessness really enlightens you,” Tufts said.

Getting involved in organizations that help others who are less fortunate can help students gain a new perspective on the world, as well as brighten the day of someone around them. Volunteering is worth the time and effort that you put into it if you are interested in making a difference.

“The volunteer work I’ve done with Community Matters has really influenced my goals in life. This organization has made me want to fight to end stereotypes and misunderstandings. I would love to do something in politics or even law to alter unjust laws or even defend prejudged people in court,” Tufts said.

By working with this group, Tufts has been able to create healthy and lasting relationships with people whom we usually turn a blind eye towards.

“I’m so glad I got involved in this organization, as it definitely shaped my character and ambitions,” Tufts said.