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Volunteering is an act of kindness that holds the potential to drastically impact the world and the lives of others. In his recent talk, volunteer leader Nicolas Sandoval highlights the profound ripple effect that can arise from a simple, intentional act of giving. It all starts with one individual’s decision to make a difference, a decision that can spread far beyond what one might expect, much like the butterfly effect.

Nicolas recalls how a trip to a children’s center in Baja California, Mexico, changed the course of his life forever. What began as a typical volunteer mission to deliver toys, canned food, and clothes evolved into a deeper reflection on the way we give. Nicolas recognized that while material contributions were helpful, they were not enough to truly empower these children to thrive. In fact, he realized that the real way to help is by equipping children with life skills and tools to succeed once they leave the safety of orphanages.

This insight led to the founding of Create Purpose, an initiative designed to shift the way we support children in care. Rather than just providing short-term aid, Create Purpose focuses on providing children in orphanages with the skills they need to thrive in the real world. By using project-based learning and the principles of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), the program is helping these children learn practical skills that will prepare them for a brighter future.

The butterfly effect—where one small action can set off a chain reaction of change—is used as a metaphor throughout Nicolas’s talk. The idea is that even the smallest effort, like teaching a child a valuable life skill or providing them with the tools to succeed, can create a ripple effect, improving not just that child’s life but also the lives of those they touch.

Nicolas tells the story of Bobby, a 12-year-old boy at the children’s center, whose articulate English and mature demeanor made a lasting impact. Despite growing up in an orphanage, Bobby exuded hope and leadership. This interaction made Nicolas realize that true help comes from equipping children with the skills they need to build their own futures, not just through material donations.

Nicolas’s message is clear: to break the cycle of poverty and helplessness, we must think beyond short-term charity and focus on long-term solutions that empower children. Instead of giving toys when books or life skills are needed, it’s time to raise the standard of how we give, making sure our contributions truly equip others to thrive.

As Nicolas aptly says, “Create your own butterfly effect.” Whether you donate your time, skills, or resources, each action you take can ripple outward, influencing countless others in positive ways. By thinking more strategically about how we serve those in need, we can elevate our communities and help them grow sustainably.

This is not just about giving—it’s about giving with purpose. Through collective, intentional action, we can create a world where children leave orphanages prepared to lead successful, fulfilling lives. The butterfly effect is real, and it starts with each of us.