Volunteer Appreciation Month Spotlight: Caroline Barrett

Celebrating Our Volunteers in April

April is Volunteer Appreciation Month—a time to celebrate the everyday heroes who give their time and energy to uplift others. At El Nido Family Centers, our volunteers bring warmth, joy, and strength to everything we do. They tutor students, help at our Farmers Market, lead workshops, support events, and so much more. Each one plays a role in helping us strengthen Los Angeles.

Throughout the month, we’re shining a light on some of the inspiring individuals behind the scenes. Today, we’re thrilled to introduce one of our youngest and most dedicated volunteers: Caroline Barrett.

Meet Caroline Barrett: Rooted in Service

Caroline Barrett, a senior at Notre Dame High School, began volunteering with El Nido after discovering us online. Drawn to the idea of gardening and participating in a local Farmers Market, she signed up without hesitation—and has been a key part of the volunteer team ever since.

Caroline supports El Nido’s Farmers Market and Tutoring Program, lending a helping hand where it’s most needed. Whether she’s harvesting produce or helping a student with homework, she brings thoughtfulness, curiosity, and care to every task.

“I volunteer with El Nido because I believe it’s important to provide healthy eating options to everyone,” she shares. “I also truly enjoy the people I’ve met along the way.”

A Meaningful Connection to Community

Through her time at El Nido, Caroline has grown not only as a volunteer, but as a member of the Los Angeles community. “Volunteering has allowed me to meet new people from all backgrounds who come together for a common cause,” she explains. “It’s helped me become part of something meaningful, bringing new energy and life to the community.”

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel disconnected—but young leaders like Caroline are helping to foster community and build connections that transcend age, background, or zip code. Her commitment to service reminds us that creating a better world starts right here, at the local level.

Resilience in Action

When asked what resilience means to her, Caroline’s answer reflects the heart of El Nido’s mission: “To me, resilience means facing hardships with strength and courage, growing together as individuals and as communities.”

Her time with El Nido—especially in a hands-on setting like the Farmers Market—has shown her just how powerful a united, compassionate community can be. She’s witnessed neighbors support one another, and she’s become part of a shared effort to build a healthier, more connected Los Angeles.

Thank You, Caroline – and All Our Volunteers!

Caroline’s story is a beautiful example of the passion and purpose our volunteers bring to El Nido. Her leadership, kindness, and enthusiasm make her an incredible role model—not only for her peers, but for all of us.

To Caroline, and to every El Nido volunteer making a difference in the lives of families we serve: thank you. This Volunteer Appreciation Month, and every day, we’re grateful for your unwavering dedication and generosity. You inspire us all.

To learn more about our volunteer program and sign up for volunteer opportunities, please click here or reach out to Sophie Stoller, Volunteer Coordinator, at sstoller@elnidofamilycenters.org.