Sebastian Sabrera Quispe

Amazing time at training with future volunteers of The Store, where understanding was made easy with videos, scenarios and joyful energy. Look forward to volunteering with the team!

Amazing opportunity to be at a place where positivity and care goes a long way. The adoption event of Lucky Dog Rescue provides a place where pets from shelters and foster homes are able to have a second chance. Animals that portray big smiles and wagging tails after such hardship, the animals really portray the best of this world, with perseverance to keep living, innocence, and loyalty, which are qualities that are lacking within people. The pets show us how great humans can be if we can be more empathetic, loyal, and just playful to high and low moments in our lives. Thank you Lucky Dog Animal Rescue!!

Japan-America Society of Washington DC’s Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival is the largest celebration of Japanese culture in the United States. Over two days, the Sakura Matsuri brings Japan into the heart of the Nation’s Capitol. Stretching from 3rd to 7th streets NW on Pennsylvania Ave at the base of Capitol Hill, the festival features over 24 hours of Japanese cultural performances, authentic Japanese food and beverages, handmade Japanese crafts, and so much more.

Volunteers help with set-up, break-down, as well as interacting with vendors and attendees during the festival. No Japanese language skills are required and volunteers can choose which area and shift they want to volunteer in. Shifts are about 4 hours each.

Volunteering as a Patient Transport at Inova Alexandria Hospital has given me the opportunity to witness firsthand the profound impact of compassion and empathy in moments of transition. Each patient I assist is not just a room number or a medical case, but a father recovering from surgery, a mother finally heading home to her children, or a sister or brother whose body has fought to get better. In these moments, as I guide them through the hospital corridors or help them into a car waiting outside, I’m reminded that even a seemingly simple task can carry immense weight. It’s not just about pushing a wheelchair, its much more, it’s about offering a steady hand, a warm smile, and a calm presence when they’re feeling vulnerable, disoriented, or exhausted. Sometimes they need reassurance, a gentle conversation to ease their nerves, or just someone who will take the time to ask how they’re feeling and genuinely listen. In these interactions, I strive to create a moment of comfort, letting them know they’re not alone, that they’re seen, and that their journey toward recovery is something worth celebrating, step by step. In those brief but significant moments, I’m not just transporting patients, I try my best to offer empathy, human connection, and a reminder that someone cares.

Volunteering at the Hyattsville Fire Department has been an invaluable experience, allowing me to learn from skilled EMTs who demonstrate what it truly means to provide EMS care with compassion, knowledge, and efficiency. Observing them in action, I’ve seen how every call is treated with urgency, respect, and empathy, whether they’re stabilizing a patient at a scene, assessing vital signs, or providing critical pre-hospital care. It’s not just about administering treatment but also putting yourself in the patient’s shoes and be able to provide calming and reassuring words, maintaining composure under pressure, and communicating effectively with both patients and fellow responders. Working as a team with fellow EMTs has shown me how essential collaboration is in delivering the best possible care. Whether confirming dosages, double-checking techniques, or exchanging vital information about a patient’s condition, every team member’s input contributed to more accurate and efficient care. The EMTs I was able to shadow embodied a blend of technical skill and genuine compassion, showing me that while medical knowledge is essential, the ability to connect with people during their most vulnerable moments is just as crucial. This experience has not only deepened my respect for emergency responders further but also reinforced my desire to provide the same level of empathetic and competent care in my future pursuits.

Volunteering at Miriam’s Kitchen has been a profoundly enriching experience that has deepened my understanding of community, dignity, and the collective effort required to address chronic homelessness in Washington, DC. Over multiple shifts, I’ve had the opportunity to assist in preparing and serving nutritious meals, distribute essential items like toiletries and clothing, and engage with guests in meaningful conversations.

What sets Miriam’s Kitchen apart is its commitment to treating every guest with respect and compassion. The organization’s holistic approach, which does more than providing meals, but also access to social services, healthcare, and housing support, which demonstrates a deep understanding of the multifaceted challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness.

The staff and fellow volunteers create an environment that is both welcoming and empowering. Their dedication and warmth create a sense of community that extends to every person’s heart. It’s inspiring to see how collective efforts can contribute to meaningful change in the lives of others.

Participating in this work has not only allowed me to give back to the community but has also provided me with invaluable insights into the systemic issues surrounding homelessness. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of Miriam’s Kitchen’s mission and look forward to continuing to support their efforts in creating a more equitable and compassionate society.