Volunteer Appreciation Event 2025 — Highlights! On April 26, 2025, Empower and Excel held our annual Volunteer Appreciation Event at Katherine R. Smith Elementary School — a heartwarming celebration of dedication, service, and community impact. The event began with a warm welcome by youth volunteer Sriaditi Yellamraju and updates from our CEO, Ayesha Charagulla, highlighting the year’s achievements. We proudly presented PVSA, Congressional, and special awards to our incredible youth volunteers, recognizing their growth into compassionate leaders. Youth volunteers Viraat and Sana delivered powerful and inspiring speeches, while the heartfelt message from our parent speaker moved the entire room. Rachana Cheruvu’s inspiring journey stood out as a symbol of consistent service, and we are proud of her receiving commendation from District 8 of San Jose City. Thanks to Meriwest Credit Union Bank, scholarships were awarded to the volunteer of the year recipients, and in a touching moment, a laptop was gifted to a young adult from Gilory—the first in her family to attend college. We are proud of how our volunteer Aishwarya Manga’s mentorship supported this first-generation girl to get into college. We were honored by the presence of esteemed elected officials Senator Dave Cortese Supervisor Otto Lee Santa Clara County Deputy DA Hugo Hugo Meza, and supporters Amjad Elijas, from Meriwest Credit Union, Sachin Radhakrishnan from City of San Jose | District 8, Katherin Smith Elementary Principal Cesar Gayton, Eddie Oberoi Gagan Hasteer Varna Puvvada Sanjay Charagulla Namrita Grover Cecilia Chu-Juluri Indira Rao Meka Charmayne Moran who joined us in celebrating our changemakers. The evening ended with a joyful community meal and lasting memories. Thank you to every volunteer, family, and supporter who continues to uplift and strengthen our mission! hashtag#VolunteerAppreciation hashtag#EmpowerAndExcel hashtag#YouthLeadership hashtag#CommunityImpact hashtag#CommunityLove (fb)

🌎🎨 On the occasion of Earth Day, a big thank you to the amazing Apple employees who came out to beautify a Title 1 school by painting the Kindergarten blacktop area! Your time, creativity, and teamwork brought color and joy to a space where young minds play and learn every day. Your contribution has not only brightened the school grounds but also uplifted the spirits of students, educators, and families. We are grateful for your commitment to community, education, and the environment. Together, we’re creating vibrant and welcoming spaces for all! #EarthDay2025 #AppleVolunteers #BeautifyEducation #Title1Schools #KindergartenMagic #CommunityImpact #PaintingForACause #BlacktopMakeover #EmpowerAndExcel #GivingBackTogether (fb)