YLDP’s Best Service Essay: Making a Difference at Ripley House

By Sriharsha Kethireddipalli
HOUSTON: On a Saturday morning, bright and early, I stepped into the car without clearly understanding what I was about to do. When I reached the Ripley House in Houston, there was no doubt in my mind that the experience I was about to have would be unforgettable. Children from all socioeconomic backgrounds, races, and sizes celebrated the joy of the holiday season together.
As a member of YLDP, having a chance to make a difference in the community is a privilege. At the Ripley House, the task I was assigned was simple yet elegant: to hand out gifts to children aged 4-18. To see the faces light up and the families happy made the whole experience worth my time.
One of the most profound messages that I have taken from YLDP this year is that simplicity can often yield the best results. As Mr. Vijay Goradia started his company with an apartment and telephone book and Judge Emmett’s straightforward yet effective style of leadership, the Ripley House took a simple approach to brighten the lives of hundreds of people. I was given the chance to apply this principle and better the community and myself. For nearly 6 hours, I performed the tasks I was assigned, such as bringing out the presents, ushering people to their seats, and smiling while I put in my best effort to make others happy. Rather than overcomplicating these activities, I worked efficiently and finished one thing after another.
Another important message that will remain with me forever is that no matter what, we can always give back. Mr. Brian Green, the CEO of the Houston Food Bank, made it clear to us that no matter what is going on in the hectic world that surrounds us, the community could always use our help. By volunteering with new friends in YLDP, the same spirit that pervaded the Food Bank was apparent in the Ripley House: one of selflessness and unconditional love for out fellow human beings.
Although the duties that my peers and I were doing were not “leadership” roles, in having followers and making life changing decisions, it was still, in my opinion, a perfect outlet to practice leadership. Working with others, being active, and helping shape the lives of young children has put the term leadership in a whole new perspective for me. We are not required to lead a multi-billion dollar organization or be the president of the country to be an effective leader. Rather, applying the skills we already have and setting an example for those around us can change the world in ways that we may not be aware of.
Volunteering my time at the Ripley House and understanding what leadership is engraved the message of YLDP in my conscience. There is no doubt that this was an influential experience and it has inspired me to give back more than I have received.
This won the best service essay award, and Sriharsha was awarded with  $50  Shell Gas Card as a recognition.