Lily Johnson: A Young Changemaker Sharpening her Philanthropic Toolkit
Some people stumble into philanthropy later in life, but for Lily Johnson a senior at Memorial High School and a Youth Leadership Team member for Family Giving Circle, the passion for giving back ignited early. From high school volunteer work to hands-on mentorship, she has continuously refined her ability to make a difference. Her story is about dedication, leadership, and the unwavering belief that small acts of kindness can create lasting change.
A Spark Ignited
Johnson first engaged with Greater Houston Community Foundation in 2023 through its Family Giving Circle. Johnson shared, “I think I’ve always had a heart for giving back, but I truly recognized its importance when I started working with Greater Houston Community Foundation and Houston reVision in high school. Seeing firsthand how much a small act of kindness can impact someone else’s life really opened my eyes.”
This realization shaped Johnson’s journey, driving her to seek more opportunities to support her community. Whether through youth mentorship, grantmaking, or coaching soccer, she has consistently found ways to give back.
The Power of Experience
Johnson’s involvement with the Foundation’s Family Giving Circle and Houston reVision has significantly influenced how she dedicates her time. “Meeting kids who don’t have the same resources or opportunities I had growing up made me want to do more,” Johnson reflects. “Seeing our impact through grants, mentorship, or coaching soccer showed me the power of giving back.”
Her “why” is simple yet profound: the tangible impact of her efforts fuels her motivation. From helping families gain access to healthcare with the Family Giving Circle to fostering confidence in young athletes by coaching a soccer team for Houston reVision, she has seen how support and encouragement can change lives. “That’s why I keep coming back—because I know it makes a difference.”
Advice for Aspiring Volunteers
For young people unsure of how to start their philanthropic journey, Johnson’s advice is clear: “Start small! You don’t have to do something huge to make a difference. Volunteer at a local nonprofit, join a school club focused on service, or even help out in your neighborhood. Once you start, you’ll see how rewarding it is, and it will inspire you to do more.”
Johnson also encourages families to volunteer together, finding causes that resonate with them. “The Family Giving Circle at Greater Houston Community Foundation is a great way for families to make an impact together, and it gets kids involved at an early age while teaching them leadership skills.”
A Legacy of Giving
Inspired by her grandparents Carolyn and John Johnson, Greater Houston Community Foundation fundholders, she joined the Family Giving Circle and found a community of like-minded peers. “My grandparents have always been big on giving back, and I loved the idea of doing the same. When I joined, I met other kids who cared about making a difference, and we worked together to support nonprofits doing vital work. It felt good to be part of something bigger than myself and actually see the impact we were making.”
Through the Family Giving Circle, she learned invaluable lessons in leadership and collaboration, sharing, “Leadership is more than just organizing—it’s about bringing people together to create change.” These insights have shaped her approach, and she has shared them with friends and family, encouraging others to get involved.
Broadening Perspectives
Her philanthropic work introduced her to issue areas impacting Houstonians that she previously knew little about, such as foster care and juvenile justice. “Learning about the struggles these kids face daily made me want to take action and support them in any way I could.”
Her philanthropic passions gravitate toward children’s education, literacy, and youth development. Having experienced dyslexia herself, she understands firsthand how access to proper support can change a child’s future. “I want to help kids get the support they need to overcome challenges and reach their full potential.” This has fueled her to help disadvantaged youth find opportunities for success.
A Lasting Commitment
Her work with Houston reVision started through the Family Giving Circle, but her connection deepened when she began coaching their girls’ soccer team. “Seeing these girls grow and find joy in soccer has been one of the most rewarding experiences.”
Looking ahead, Johnson plans to stay engaged in community service at Auburn University and beyond. “No matter where I go, I’ll find ways to support youth development and education, whether through volunteering, fundraising, or mentoring.”
Even after high school graduation, she hopes to stay involved with Greater Houston Community Foundation through youth mentorship opportunities and other philanthropic initiatives. Johnson stated, “The Foundation has given me so much, and I want to continue being a part of its mission.”
A Bright Future in Philanthropy
As Johnson continues to sharpen her philanthropic toolkit and passion for giving back, one thing is clear: her commitment to amplifying her impact and making a profound, lasting difference in the lives of others is nothing short of inspiring. Johnson aspires to continue to make a difference in her community by incorporating nonprofit work into her future career. Johnson also mentioned how her experience with the Family Giving Circle “has also given me so much to talk about in my college applications!”
Johnson’s journey inspires anyone looking to get involved in their community. It shows that with a willingness to help, anyone at any age can leave a lasting impact. Curious to see how you can partner with the Foundation to engage your family in giving back? Contact Jennifer Touchet, Vice President of Personal and Family Philanthropy.
More Helpful Articles by Greater Houston Community Foundation:
- A Mother’s Spirit of Generosity Lives on Through Her Children
- Five Ways to Nurture and Grow Generosity in Your Children
- How to Give Back to Your Community
- The Power of Collective Giving
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