Growing Leaders: Meet Our Student Volunteers
At West End Center, some of our most meaningful full-circle moments come when former students return to give back. This semester, we are proud to highlight two student volunteers from Patrick Henry High School who are making a difference in the same place that once supported them.
Amira – Senior, Patrick Henry High School
For Amira, volunteering at West End Center is deeply personal. As a former student, she remembers firsthand the people who poured into her—and now, she’s doing the same for the next generation. “I wanted to help the kids. I used to attend, and I remember the people who helped me,” she shared.
That experience continues to shape her perspective. “I feel like volunteers can help the kids have a better future,” Amira said, highlighting the importance of consistent support and encouragement.
During a typical day, Amira jumps in wherever she’s needed—helping students with schoolwork, assisting staff, serving snacks, and making sure kids have what they need to succeed. Her willingness to step up and stay engaged makes her a valuable part of the daily program.
One of her favorite memories comes from the summer program. “Volunteering in the summer is fun. I loved playing with the kids at the pool,” she said, reflecting on the joy of simply spending time together.
Volunteering has also helped Amira grow personally. “It helps me to be outside, interactive, and more productive,” she shared.
And if you ask her for a fun fact? “I’m a very sweet person,” she said—and her actions certainly reflect that.
For anyone considering volunteering, Amira has a simple message: “You should volunteer at the West End Center. It’s a fun adventure.”
Innocent – Junior, Patrick Henry High School
Like Amira, Innocent’s connection to West End Center comes from personal experience. A former student, he chose to volunteer in part because of the impact the program had on him and his family. “West End Center always showed love to me and my family,” he shared.
While he notes that community involvement is important for college, his decision to return speaks to something deeper—a sense of familiarity and appreciation for the environment that helped shape him.
On a typical day, Innocent can be found helping students with homework, spending time in the cafeteria or homework area, and assisting staff wherever needed. “I help out wherever Ms. Dez needs me,” he said, showing his flexibility and team-first attitude.
One of his favorite memories? A little friendly competition. “The first time I played football as a volunteer, my team beat the others,” he shared with a smile.
Through volunteering, Innocent has gained a new perspective. “It’s helped me become a better person,” he said. “It also helps me understand how adults work with kids—I don’t know how they do it for so long.”
Outside of West End Center, Innocent stays busy. He works at Sheetz, has modeled for a friend’s clothing line, and boxes three times a week.
When asked what he would tell someone thinking about volunteering, his advice is honest and encouraging: “It’s a good environment. The people are nice. It’s easy work because it’s just kids.”
We are incredibly proud of Amira and Innocent for stepping up, giving back, and continuing the cycle of support that makes West End Center so special. Their stories are a powerful reminder that the impact of this community lasts far beyond the years spent as a student.
