My Nonprofit Reviews

I have been a volunteer for Be The Star You Are for almost two years now. I am currently a teen reporter and host for one of BTSYA's outreach programs, Express Yourself Teen Radio. Just the other day, I was having a college interview, and the interviewer asked me whether I often found myself changing my opinions and perspectives about certain topics or situations. At first, I responded, "No, not really." However, I immediately corrected my response as I thought of Express Yourself Teen Radio. Every time we have had a reporter or guest on air with us, I have learned something new. Sometimes, this "new" information is simply a fact that I did not know, but often, instead, the "new" information is a perspective that I did not previously consider. For example, it never occurred to me to see drug use more as drug dependence than drug abuse. It never occurred to me that people who leave their homes for the safety of a shelter often must leave their beloved pets behind. It never occurred to me that the hooded figure chasing me in my dreams might be me. None of these ideas occurred to me until I heard them from a reporter or guest on the radio show. In this way, volunteering for Be The Star You Are gives me not one, but two or three, or even four, more perspectives on a topic. As we discuss a theme, I am often reminded of my personal experiences, and those memories become much more valuable to me as I connect them to our on-air discussions. When I meet people, I have many more stories to tell and many more perspectives to explain because of Be The Star You Are and Express Yourself. Of all the organizations and programs out there, I believe that Be The Star You Are is the best way to better know the world, better understand others, and better appreciate yourself. As a volunteer, I know from experience that as a part of BTSYA, you learn, you grow, and you smile.

Working with Cynthia Brian for Be the Star You Are has been one of the best opportunities and decisions of my life. As a volunteer for Be the Star You Are, I have been able to expand my communication skills in both writing and speaking. With the world constantly changing and advancing, people are becoming busier and busier. As a result, we often find less time to read and write for entertainment or take a moment to reflect on the positive aspects of life. Be The Star You Are reminds people about the small and large sources of inspiration and encouragement in life and ways to overcome obstacles and move forward toward goals. After entering high school, my priorities veered toward non practical and academic-oriented objectives. I can confidently say that volunteering for Be the Star You Are has reminded me of the importance and joy of positive messages and has rekindled my love for reading and writing. Be the Star You Are promotes positive media and literacy in such an inspirational and memorable way that it not only impacts its listeners and readers, but is also a transformative experience for its volunteers.

Of my volunteer organizations, Be the Star You Are is definitely my favorite. It’s unique in that it helps you as much as you help others through it. I really feel like being a reporter for BTSYA has helped me gain confidence and comfort in speaking. I recently did a speech in my english class at school and couldn’t help but think that reporting through the BTSYA radio contributed to my ability to speak conversationally and connect with my peers in the class. Above all, our wonderful founder Cynthia Brian takes great care of all of us. Everyone I have met through this organization has been so welcoming and friendly. Be The Star You Are is rewarding in every sense, and I hope to continue working with BTSYA for many more years.