A small group of students from Oxford Academy saw problems in the world and are trying to change them.
Brendan Li, a sophomore at Oxford, said he formed the nonprofit organization ILLUME to make an impact on the world around him, and is doing just that.
Moreover, Li has recruited a number of his classmates and others who want to play a role, and they are at it again.
“I’m thrilled to also share an update on our most recent event, which took place today, on November 25th. This ILLUME Thanksgiving Celebration was our most successful event, with over 80 senior citizens in attendance,” said Li in an email statement.
Li said the event took place at the Cypress Senior Center.
“It was a morning filled with joy, community, and gratitude. Our event featured a variety of performances, including the flute, saxophone, singing, piano, clarinet, violin, gourd flute, guitar, and dancing, all by volunteers who were eager to spread their joy,” said Li.
“In addition, we also had handmade cards and homemade cookies for the seniors. We reflected on the season of thankfulness and expressed gratitude not only for the seniors but for the community we have built together,” the young man said.
This event would not have been possible without the dedication of the ILLUME Board and volunteers, he said.
Li said the board includes himself as (Co-Founder/Co-President)and is composed of Yanhao Jia (Junior at Oxford Academy, Co-Founder/Co-President), Annie Gao (Sophomore at Oxford Academy, Director of Public Relations), and Olivia Hong (Sophomore at Oxford Academy, Historian). The group also has as strategic alliances with other groups and ILLUME has dedicated volunteers.
He said the volunteers “worked hard to bring everyone together and truly worked towards our mission to create a space where everyone feels loved, cherished, and included.”
At the heart of this event was ILLUME’s mission to illuminate and empower lives by spreading kindness and bringing light to underserved communities.
I, personally, truly felt that this event was so special as it allowed for a time to pause and reflect on the blessings that we have in our lives while giving back to those around us.
“For many seniors, the holiday season can be a lonely time, but I truly hope that through this Thanksgiving event, ILLUME has been able to spread cheer, warmth, and love. The holiday season is a time for connection, love, and celebration, and ILLUME hopes to ensure that these seniors could truly experience the joy of community and the comfort of knowing that they are loved and appreciated,” said Li.