For Loyola College Prep junior Ryan Johnson, volunteering with Volunteers of America North Louisiana (VOANLA) is a simple way to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children in his community.
Ryan first discovered the joy of volunteering in middle school, when he tutored students at Creswell Elementary School through the National Junior Honor Society. When he reached high school, he learned about additional opportunities to serve through VOANLA, and found a volunteer experience that quickly became something he looked forward to each week.
Last school year, Ryan volunteered every Monday afternoon at our Travis Street LightHouse after-school program. His time was spent helping children with their homework, playing games and, most importantly, simply being present.
“I really enjoy being able to help the kids and make a positive impact in their lives,” Ryan shared.
Sometimes, It’s the Little Things
One of Ryan’s favorite memories from volunteering began with something as simple as a game of soccer.
One afternoon, he noticed a young girl playing soccer by herself. Ryan joined her, and the two played together. From that day forward, whenever the children went outside, she would look for Ryan and ask him to play soccer with her.
It was a small interaction, but it stayed with him.
Ryan says that one of the most meaningful parts of volunteering is being able to make “the little things fun and memorable.” While tutoring provides important academic support, the relationships volunteers build with children can be just as impactful.
More Than an Hour of Service
Ryan was also surprised by how quickly he felt welcomed into the VOANLA community.
“After the first time, every time I came back everyone remembered my name and who I was,” he said. “The kids would always want me to come help them or play something with them.”
That sense of connection made volunteering feel less like an obligation and more like something he genuinely enjoyed.
For Ryan, volunteering has become a weekly opportunity to give his time, share his talents and build relationships with children and families in his community.
And his message to anyone who might be hesitant to volunteer is simple:
“All it takes is an hour a week and you can make a big difference in the lives of kids and families served by VOA.”
Your Time Can Make a Difference
Volunteers play an important role in strengthening the mission of Volunteers of America North Louisiana. Whether you have an hour each week, a few hours each month or a special talent you want to share, your time can have a lasting impact.
As Ryan puts it, “VOA volunteers help strengthen our community by pouring their time and energy into the families and children served by VOA.”
You don’t have to have years of experience or endless free time to make a difference. Sometimes, all it takes is showing up, lending a helping hand and being willing to make someone’s day a little brighter.
For Ryan, that meant tutoring on Monday afternoons and playing soccer with a child who just wanted someone to play with.
For someone else, it might look completely different.
But every hour matters. Every relationship matters. And every volunteer has the opportunity to make a difference.
If you’re ready to get involved with Volunteers of America North Louisiana, consider giving your time and becoming part of the difference we’re making across our community.