Meet Daily Point of Light Award honoree Dhevesh Mahes. Read his story, and nominate an outstanding volunteer or family as a Daily Point of Light.
When Dhevesh Mahes turned his love of desserts into a fundraiser two years ago, he had no idea it would grow to have the impact it has today. That first small act connected him with Anna Sudha Community Kitchens, and sparked the creation of Nourishin Ninjas, a youth team with the mission of fighting food insecurity across Northern Virginia.
Since then, Dhevesh has built something remarkable. He has created hands-on service opportunities for more than 150 young volunteers, helped the team recover over 300,000 pounds of food, and forged partnerships with 10+ businesses and community organizations. He works directly with school family liaisons to reach families facing transportation barriers, connecting them with groceries and hot meals, and has raised nearly $52,000 to sustain and expand the work. Now a Youth Advisor on Anna Sudha’s board, he’s proving that leadership has nothing to do with age.
Inspired by his grandfather, who helped people simply because it was the right thing to do, Dhevesh sees young people not as leaders of tomorrow, but as vital, participatory members of their communities today.
“Leadership isn’t about your age or having a title. It’s about seeing a need and being willing to take the first step.”
Do you want to make a difference in your community like Dhevesh? Find local volunteer opportunities.