Volunteering is more than just giving time; it’s about making an impact, fostering connections, and creating change. Two teenagers in Bellevue are doing just that in their own unique ways. Jacob Tsim and Jack Bede both dedicate themselves to causes close to their hearts. Through their efforts, they demonstrate that age is no barrier to making a difference in their community.

 

At just 14 years old, Jacob Tsim, a ninth grader at the International School in the Bellevue School District, has already dedicated 3.5 years to volunteering. His commitment lies with International Buddy, an organization that helps children with intellectual disabilities, particularly those diagnosed with ADHD and autism.

 

Jacob’s connection to the cause is deeply personal. Having been diagnosed with ADHD himself, he understands the struggles that come with fitting in. This empathy fuels his passion for helping kids feel included and valued. “I like to see kids suffering from that be able to fit in better,” Jacob explains. Each weekend, Jacob participates in various events including talent shows, cultural gatherings, and weekly sports activities such as basketball and swimming. He also enjoys engaging the children in board games, helping them develop social skills in a fun and interactive way.

 

What Jacob enjoys most about volunteering is the joy he sees in the kids’ faces. “I love seeing the kids’ smiles and seeing them have fun. I feel they should live out their childhood while they can,” he says. His dedication has made him an integral part of International Buddy, where he continues to encourage others to join.

 

Jacob joined the Bellevue Ski School nonprofit in second grade to learn skiing and snowboarding. In 8th grade, Jacob became a ski instructor trainee. This winter he volunteered at Bellevue Ski School as a formal snowboarding instructor, teaching elementary kids for eight weekends. As his mother, Vera, says, “Skiing is one of Jacob’s passions, and he took this opportunity to give back what he learned to the community. The four years he has had mentoring kids at International Buddy has strengthened his self-esteem and confidence. It has been a great platform to develop his leadership and social skills.”

 

For those considering volunteering, Jacob has simple but powerful advice: “Go sign up and go to the weekly events to see how you like it. It is very fun. The kids are interesting.” International Buddy is always looking for more volunteers, and Jacob hopes more people will step up to help foster an inclusive environment for kids with intellectual disabilities.

 

Sixteen-year-old Jack Bede, a sophomore at Bellevue High School, has also found his passion for volunteering, but in a different way. He has been working with Food Lifeline in Seattle since eighth grade and recently began volunteering with Camp Four Winds, a place he has attended since he was nine years old.

Food Lifeline is an organization that focuses on feeding the homeless by packaging and distributing food. Jack describes the process as simple yet incredibly meaningful. “You sign up and put in your information, then they teach you how to package food for homeless people,” he explains. He has dedicated years to this effort, knowing his work directly impacts those in need.

 

Camp Four Winds holds an especially personal significance for Jack. Having attended the camp since childhood, he attributes many of his formative experiences to it. Now, as a volunteer, he sees giving back as a way of expressing gratitude. “As a camper, it has shaped my perspective on life with a lot of good experiences. I feel indebted to the camp and love giving back to the community,” he shares. At Camp Four Winds Jack takes on various roles, from helping oversee meals and activities to assisting kids at bedtime—often a challenging task. “In many cases, they are very restless at bedtime. I had a friend come in and sing them to sleep with his guitar,” he recalls. His involvement ensures younger campers have the same enriching experience he did.

 

For Jack, the feeling of giving back is unparalleled. “It makes me feel really good and overjoyed. It’s so nice being able to give back. I’m so glad to have the chance to help other people,” he says. He strongly encourages others to take up volunteering, emphasizing that even starting small can lead to rewarding experiences. “It is definitely worth it to volunteer. I would recommend it to everyone,” he says.

 

Both Jacob and Jack exemplify the power of young volunteers in making a tangible difference in their communities. Though their paths are different, their dedication and compassion are the same. Whether it’s helping children with disabilities find belonging or ensuring people in need have meals, these teenagers prove that anyone, regardless of age, can create meaningful change.

 

For those inspired by their stories, there are countless opportunities to get involved. Whether it’s through International Buddy, Food Lifeline, Camp Four Winds, or any other organization, the key is to start. As Jack puts it, “Start small—it’s a great experience. People will feel rewarded by it.”

 

Jacob and Jack’s stories are a testament to the impact one person can make and their efforts serve as an inspiration for others to find their own ways to give back.