Strengthening Families Through Service Of Others
By: Hailey Wesloski
Today’s students are growing up in a world that often pushes them toward comparison, competition, and constant pressure. They see headlines filled with conflict, they watch peers strive to “get ahead,” and they feel the weight of a culture that can make young people focus inward instead of outward. In the midst of all this, parents want their children to learn something different: that real leadership is built on humility, empathy, and an awareness of the people around them. Service gives students space to step outside of the noise and rediscover what truly matters: thinking of others and building strong relationships, beginning with their own families.
On November 22nd, the Valley Guardians Executive Leadership scholars embodied this kind of leadership by preparing Thanksgiving food baskets for 15 families in need. Many of these students benefit from the generosity of the Valley Guardians community, and they eagerly came together to give back. It was a meaningful moment for parents to see their children shift from the busy, fast-paced world they navigate every day to one where kindness and gratitude took center stage.
The event brought together 21 coaching students, including 19 VG scholars, along with 14 family members. Families began the morning sharing some treats and conversations that set a warm and connected atmosphere. Instructors introduced the families who would be receiving the baskets, and students listened thoughtfully as they learned about real needs and unique circumstances. Parents watched their children begin to think beyond themselves, a skill that translates directly into better decision-making, stronger relationships, and more compassionate leadership.
Thanks to the generosity of donors and VG families, $1,700 was raised to provide Thanksgiving meals for 60 people. Students reviewed each family’s dietary needs and requests, then worked with their parents to create a shopping plan that was thoughtful and resourceful. The simple act of shopping became a leadership lesson: noticing details, communicating clearly, and making choices with someone else in mind.
Once done shopping, the students shifted into creative mode, decorating each basket with handmade leaves, turkeys, and personal letters to the families. Parents and students worked side by side, laughing, problem-solving, and taking pride in making something special for another family. The room felt like a reminder that giving back brings people closer, not just the families receiving help, but the ones giving it.
Several VG families volunteered to deliver the baskets, creating powerful moments where students could see the impact of their efforts firsthand. Parents later shared how meaningful it was to witness their children experience gratitude not just as a feeling, but as an action.
Events like these show why giving back matters so deeply for today’s youth. It teaches them to look outward in a world that often tells them to look inward. It strengthens their character, improves how they show up at home, and prepares them to become leaders who put people first.
The Valley Guardians scholars and their families extend heartfelt appreciation to the donors whose support makes these experiences possible. Your generosity doesn’t just help students, it teaches them how to help others, building values that will support them and their families for years to come.
The Valley Guardians Leadership Program
The Valley Guardian program is a multiyear coaching program for underserved students in the community. It was created by successful business people in the valley. They got together and formed a non-profit to find ways to fund developmental programs for kids in underserved communities. This program was aimed toward the underserved kids in the valley who have good hearts and have a desire to be successful and be mentored. The kids who are a part of this program have access to all different kinds of services like professional coaches, coaching calls, getaways, leadership education and training workshops, access to professionals in the valley, college and career readiness and more. The Valley Guardian program started with a single school of 6 students, and overtime has grown to 13 schools, 7 districts, and 49 active students. Overall there have been 120 students who have benefited from this program.
The Valley Guardians program offers over thirty online and in person workshops per year. We do many different types of workshops per year including things like arcades, parks, hikes, parties, and online leadership training. Many of the kids who come are not very social and are looking for a place to feel comfortable and be able to meet new people while being themselves. When they come to programs they have a great time. The way we set them up makes kids feel comfortable, whether we ask them what they are interested in doing or set them up to meet new people through social activities at the beginning of each event. The students find they feel connected and accepted through the program.