A Community to Be Proud Of: One High School Volunteer’s Dedication to Making a Difference

September 23, 2024

JD Slack, a student at St. Ignatius, began volunteering at St. Anthony’s through his school’s educational service program. JD’s commitment to service deepened after an injury ended his football career at St. Ignatius. Unable to continue playing football, JD reflected on how he wanted to spend his newfound free time. He recounted, “I had so much time on my hands, and I was curious about what I wanted to spend this time doing, who I wanted to create the new version of myself to be.”

Pivoting from his career as a student-athlete, JD chose to dedicate his energy to service. Attending a Catholic school instilled in JD the importance of giving back, and he decided to build on his prior experience volunteering at St. Anthony’s as part of his school’s educational service program. He explained, “I started to put my own emphasis, my own highlight on service in my own life.” As a consistent volunteer in the Dining Room and Free Clothing Program, JD has built strong relationships with guests. He shared that forming connections with the individuals he serves was transformative.

The ability to see the people I was interacting with, to build actual relationships, made me realize I was actually making an impact in another person’s life.

Despite his age, JD demonstrates a mature understanding of the complexities facing San Francisco, particularly the homelessness and drug crises. His involvement at St. Anthony’s gives him a unique perspective and allows him to empathize with members of the community who are struggling. JD’s experience as a volunteer not only shapes his personal outlook but also fuels his desire to continue making a difference.

I hope to make a lasting impact, whether through volunteering or incorporating service into my future business life.

JD’s enthusiasm for service extends beyond himself. He is a positive influence among his peers and introduces friends to volunteering at St. Anthony’s. JD believes that service should be an integral part of every young person’s life, and he hopes to encourage others to follow in his footsteps.

What began as a sports injury turned into an opportunity for service, connection, and community. JD’s dedication to volunteering at St. Anthony’s, along with his efforts to motivate his peers, highlights the ripple effect one person can create. His story is not only about overcoming a personal setback, but also about finding purpose in helping others and making a positive impact in his community.