The Power of Being Present by Kaydance

The Power of Being Present by Kaydance - March 2026 Scholarship Essay

Helping others has always been an important part of who I am, but one experience in particular changed the way I understand service and compassion. Through my volunteer work with the Kendyl & Friends Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports individuals with disabilities, I had the opportunity to help someone in a way that taught me more about myself than I ever expected.

At one of our events, I was paired with a young participant who was extremely shy and hesitant to join the activities. While other children were excitedly running around and interacting with volunteers, he stayed close to the wall, avoiding eye contact and quietly watching from a distance. At first, I wasn’t sure how to approach him without making him uncomfortable. Instead of pushing him to participate, I simply sat next to him and started talking about the activities we were planning to do.

Slowly, he began to respond. At first it was just small answers, but eventually he started asking questions and smiling. I invited him to help me set up one of the games rather than jumping straight into playing. Giving him a role seemed to make him feel more comfortable. Before long, he was laughing, interacting with other kids, and fully participating in the event.

Watching that transformation was incredibly meaningful. What began as a quiet conversation turned into a moment where someone who once felt unsure became confident enough to join the group. It reminded me that helping someone does not always mean doing something big or dramatic. Sometimes it simply means being patient, present, and willing to meet someone where they are.

That experience taught me an important lesson about myself: I have the ability to connect with people and create an environment where they feel supported and valued. I also learned that leadership and service are not about being the loudest person in the room or taking control of every situation. True leadership often means listening carefully, showing empathy, and empowering others to find their confidence.

Since that day, I have approached volunteering and everyday interactions with a new perspective. I try to be more aware of the people around me who may feel overlooked or unsure, because sometimes a small act of encouragement can make a significant difference in someone’s day. Helping that young participant taught me that my patience, empathy, and willingness to listen are strengths I can use to positively impact others.

More importantly, it showed me that service is not just about giving your time—it is about giving your attention, understanding, and support. That experience helped me realize that the most meaningful help often comes from simply making someone feel seen and valued.