Volunteer Spotlight - Summer 2020

Volunteer Name: Sophia Medina

Volunteering with Candlelighters Since: 2017

Volunteer Projects This Summer Have Included: Delivering supplies to Candlelighters' families during the COVID-19 pandemic, serving as a counselor for Virtual Camp Independent Firefly, and assembling Clinic Appreciation kits.

Prior to This Summer: CIF counselor, Pigs for the Kids, and the Torch Relay.

Share a Meaningful Memory from a Volunteer Experience: All of my memories of volunteering are so special. It’s so hard to pick just one. I will say, Camp is what tugs on my heartstrings the most. In 2019, we had one camper that was so shy. She didn’t like going out of her comfort zone at all. I had her the previous year as well. On the last night at the dance, she shared so much with me. I even got her on the dance floor so she could show us all her wonderful dance moves! That’s what it’s about; seeing them, with the brightest smile, having the time of their life. Every single time I get emotional. I can never hold back the happy tears. I wouldn’t miss this for the world. 

What is Your Favorite Part About Volunteering? Seeing the kids happy hands down. It’s always about them and bringing happiness to their life. If I can be a part of that in some way, shape, or form, I’m the happiest girl on the planet.

Why Did You Choose Candlelighters as an Organization to Volunteer for? I was referred to Candlelighters by one of my friends that had been a counselor at CIF for a couple of years. At the time, I was in a really dark place. My mother had passed unexpectedly and I didn’t like going out or being around anyone. I had mentioned to them I was ready to think of something else other than replaying in my head the events of that day. That’s when they mentioned CIF. After my first year at Camp, I can’t imagine myself at any other place. I save all my vacation time at work for that week. Any opportunity I get or have free time, I’m volunteering with Candlelighters.