Nicodemus Wilderness Project -- Global Registry of Apprentice Ecologists

I have always had an innate compassion for others throughout my life. I grew up not only trying to better myself, but also the world around me. When I see a problem, I naturally feel a sense of urgency and obligation to take action.
As recent example, I was moved to help my community as I saw my once family-oriented neighborhood park deteriorate as graffiti covered the playground, pine needles filled the volleyball sandpit, and litter coated the field. After a meeting with a City Hall member I adopted Branham Park under San Joseâ€™s Adopt-A-Park program, which meant I was in charge of setting up and leading park cleanups. Although difficult at first, I used my management and leadership skills to assemble a solid volunteer group made up of students at my school and people in my neighborhood. As the parkâ€™s condition improved I noticed a rise in family activities. Park visitors would come up to our team to thank us; some even picking up rakes to help.
At first I was apprehensive that it would be difficult to bring my community together and manage a group of people who looked solely at me for guidance, but I overcame these concerns and jumped into the project. I felt a great sense of fulfillment acting upon an opportunity to make a difference. I want to live my life with satisfaction by continuing to express and expand my abilities to positively contribute to our world.