Every Saturday morning, 19-year-old Sara Tesfaye puts on her volunteer vest and walks to the home of an elderly woman named Worknesh. She brings food, cleans the house, and sits for an hour just talking.
"Worknesh has no family left," Sara explains. "Her children passed away, and she lives alone in a small room. When I first met her, she was so lonely and depressed. Now, she smiles when she sees me."
Sara is one of dozens of young volunteers who participate in Babul Keyer USA's home care program. They visit elderly beneficiaries, provide companionship, help with household tasks, and report any health concerns to the program coordinators.
"I started volunteering because I wanted to give back," Sara says. "My family received food support from Babul Keyer USA when my father lost his job. They helped us through a difficult time. Now I want to help others."
The experience has transformed Sara's perspective on life and her community. "I used to walk past elderly people on the street without really seeing them," she admits. "Now I understand their struggles. I see their humanity."
Sara has recruited five of her friends to join the volunteer program. Together, they visit elderly beneficiaries in their neighborhood, creating a network of care and support.
"Young people have so much energy and compassion to offer," Sara reflects. "We just need someone to show us how. Babul Keyer USA gave me that opportunity, and it has changed my life."
After high school, Sara plans to study social work. "I want to make caring for others my life's work," she says. "I learned that one person can make a difference. Imagine what we could do together."
