Embracing Community Service as a Response to Injustice

Last month when I volunteered my services as a Las Vegas massage therapist at Nellis Air Force Base in North Las Vegas, I passed the security gate and the first thing I noticed was the powerful vibration of fighter jets overhead when I pulled into the parking lot. Their roar was so intense it set off car alarms nearby. It was Nurses Week, and I felt grateful for the chance to serve those who care for our soldiers and veterans. This experience reminded me how deeply community service has shaped my entire life and how it can be a meaningful way to respond to feelings of political injustice and helplessness. Even when I've struggled with my own energy I've found ways to serve my community.

A Lifelong Commitment to Community Service

My journey with community service began early. As a child, I volunteered alongside my mom in 4-H, she taught me the value of giving back. I was a Brownie with a little brown sash, going door-to-door selling Girl Scout cookies. Later, I joined mom at her Jaycees events, leading to my (albeit shy) involvement in Circle K in college. I also completed an independent study working with kindergarteners and participated in a water conservation education program for junior high students. These early experiences laid a foundation for a lifelong dedication to helping others.

Over the years, I took on leadership roles that connected me with diverse communities. For nearly four years, I co-managed Girls in Tech in Las Vegas with one of my besties, Amber Bradley, creating hands-on programs for girls in technology. I also served on several boards, including the Lieutenant Governor's Entrepreneurship Advisory Board, Southwest Tech Career Academy’s Advisory Board, and A-Tech’s Advisory Board. These roles allowed me to influence programs that support education, entrepreneurship, and career development.

Expanding Into Mental Health and Mentorship

My focus later shifted toward mental health, where I served on three boards of directors for 2 behavioral centers and a mental health non-profit. I became a Mental Health First Aid trainer, teaching adults and children how to recognize and respond to mental health challenges. For three years, I trained Mental Health First Aiders, helping bring resources to those who need it most, but have the least access.

Mentorship has been another important part of my community service. For over 13 years, I have mentored individuals from the AAPI community, underrepresented groups in tech, and transgender people. I also supported youth empowerment through The Sisters in Society Taking Action (SISTA) program and sponsored pop-up and poetry events in the African American community. Listening to the needs of these groups have deepened my understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized groups and strengthened my commitment to equity.

Serving Through My Business and Beyond

Owning a Las Vegas massage business has opened new doors for community involvement. I have been invited to work backstage with Cirque du Soleil, provided sports massage the UNLV athletics department (football, volleyball, cross-country, runners, etc.) As mentioned earlier, last month I spent an entire week volunteering at Nellis Air Force Base.

This weekend I showed my support for the AAPI community with the Healthy Filipino-American Nayon organization (video below). These opportunities allow me to combine my professional skills with my passion for service. It's a win-win for everyone!

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/298e43_6e265f50f9fd464c8dc30dc66ec4043e/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

Each experience reminds me that community service is not just about giving. It’s about connecting, learning, listening, and growing. It is a way to channel my anger and frustration with systemic injustice into positive action. When I feel overwhelmed by prejudice, bigotry, or racism, I turn to my community. Getting busy in service of my community reminds me that there are things I CAN control, and it helps me find hope and purpose.

How You Can Start Volunteering

If you want to make a difference but don’t know where to start, community service offers many paths. You don’t need to donate money to have an impact. Here are some ways to get involved:

• Volunteer your time at local organizations, schools, or events.

• Share information about causes and events on social media to raise awareness.

• Mentor someone who could benefit from your experience or support.

• Join a board or committee to help guide community programs.

• Use your skills to support nonprofits or community groups.

• Search Eventbrite or other local directories for upcoming events that might need volunteers

  
  

Even small actions add up. The key is to find something meaningful to you and take that first step.

Why Community Service Matters in Tough Times

Community service is more than a hobby or a line on a resume. It is a powerful response to the injustices that can make us feel powerless. When systems fail or discrimination persists, serving others reminds us of our shared humanity and the change we can create together.

For me, philanthropy is part of how I process the world’s challenges. It gives me strength and a sense of belonging. It connects me to people who care and work toward a better future. If you ever feel helpless or frustrated, I encourage you to try community service. It can transform your perspective and your life. There are many volunteer boards like Nevada Volunteers, Three Square, or How to Pick it Up, to name a few.

If you'd like to see my community service adventures, follow me on Instagram.