Rise and Shine Youth Leadership

Jiting (Justin) Shi

When I joined Rise and Shine in late 2023, I didn’t really know where to start. I felt lost and tried to fit in by doing what everyone else was doing. I didn’t expect it to change me, but what began as just simple participation turned into something meaningful. It pushed me to step outside my comfort zone and build a stronger connection with my community.

I’ve helped in many ways, from assisting at the Alameda County Fair and packaging food for Kids Against Hunger to organizing senior center events and holiday shoeboxes. Selling handmade artwork to raise funds for victims of the Los Angeles fires stood out the most. As an introvert, I had to learn how to greet strangers and start conversations. Over time, I became more confident, patient, and willing to take on responsibilities that needed someone to handle. I realized volunteering isn’t just about being a puzzle piece that fits perfectly into the system; it’s about being creative and making an impact through unique ways.