Star Power: Alma Watanabe

Meet Service Star Alma Watanabe, 14. Alma has been a member of her school’s Service Club for three years. TFK reader Isabella Nevsky spoke with Alma about her efforts to serve her community of Westchester, New York.

What made you want to join your school’s Service Club?

I’ve always enjoyed helping people.

What type of work do you do?

Through Service Club, I’ve helped organize different events, such as food drives, sock drives, and candy drives. We’ve also visited the Ronald McDonald House several times to cook for the families staying there.

What has been your favorite experience while volunteering?

Going to the Ronald McDonald House and meeting some of the families. They were all very grateful that we came to cook and bake for them.

How do you think your work has made a difference?

I feel like my work has changed my community for the better. There are many struggles that people face in their daily lives, and many things we take for granted. I want to help those who are going through difficult times.

What advice would you give to other kids who want to serve their community?

Kids can join groups [like Service Club], but they can also do something that might seem small. Change happens in many different ways, and simple actions can help make you part of that change.

What is something you have learned from helping others?

Helping people makes a positive impact—not only on others, but also on yourself. I always feel better when I help people, and that makes me want to continue doing good for the community.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.