THE KRUTHIK RAVIKANTI STORY
The coronavirus pandemic halted many schools, and students were staying at home with no motivation. On the other hand, Kruthik thought creatively and found new ways to support his community through the youth seva group, seeds of literature (his own community-service project), and nonprofit management!
His involvement in the youth seva group has helped many frontline workers and victims battling the coronavirus. They have been making hand-made masks to be donated to hospitals, schools, and many other places. Also, they have been making thank you cards for healthcare workers, in order to appreciate all the great work they have been during this pandemic.
Seeds of Literature is an organization established by Kruthik and his friends that promotes literacy rates through the donation of books. They make shipments to foster cares, unprivileged international schools, and local orphanages. Kruthik believes that education is a right and it shouldn’t be compromised because of an obstacle like COVID-19, hence he still continues to make shipments to these places!
Recently, Kruthik has also involved himself in non-profit management where he helps nearly 8 other community projects by providing them financial assistance. All of these organizations has different missions, and he helps students work towards them!
He received the Congressional Medal Award in January, but the recognition event at the White House was cancelled due to COVID-19. He has waited so long for one of the senators to award him a medal, but he still kept moving forward knowing that there was still a lot he could give back to his community. Currently, he works with a local youth leaders non-profit trying to enhance many community projects run by high school students like himself. His passion and drive are a great source of inspiration for me and this generation! The time he devoted to doing all this is his biggest sacrifice!

Kruthik believes that education is a right and it shouldn’t be compromised because of an obstacle like COVID-19, hence he still continues to make shipments to these places!
THE TEDxAlpharettaWomen
TEAM STORY
TEDxAlpharettaWomen was formed this year, during the pandemic with the intent to bring the community together SEEKing courage, compassion and clarity. When the world is struggling to grapple the realities of the ‘new-normal’, we cater the need to bring the community together to inspire, dream and hope for a better tomorrow.
This is a nomination to the TEDxAlpharettaWomen, Volunteer’s and core team, a group of committed individuals, keen to showcase the big ideas that are brewed right here in Alpharetta that spark conversations and drive change in our community and beyond. Curating a content that can spark ideas and conversations that brings change is the theme of TEDx and this is delivered by a core team of dedicated volunteers – the changemakers and optimists, the community connectors and creatives.
TEDx brings the spirit of TED’s mission of ideas worth spreading to local communities across the globe. The core team here at TEDxAlpharettaWomen is made up of curious individuals who work to create experiences inspired by TED and the community we love. Driven by passion and curiosity, we are from the world of social entrepreneurs, HR professionals , designers, healthcare specialists, technology experts, student leaders and everything in between.
As a volunteer-led non-profit organization, we are keen to deliver events inspired by TED philosophy with our deeply held values of respect and collaboration with the wider network of supporters that includes our sponsors and over 15 volunteers who make up our ‘Tribe’ – the glue that holds us together for collective success.

THE FIONA LALL STORY
Fiona was told she can only work 1 or 2 days a week as a caretaker. She also cares for her disabled sister who has cerebral palsy and severe epilepsy. When her sister’s condition got worse and she couldn’t take care of her son, Fiona took him in. Even though Fiona’s income was decreased, she went into her savings and used all the money she had to pay for her sister’s rent, groceries, school supplies and made sure her sister always has essential items.
Fiona also has sewed over 1,000 masks and donated it to her community. She made over 2,000 ear savers and sent them to hospitals and nursing homes all over Queens, NY. She also donated face shields to a few banks.
Fiona spent all of her savings to help those who needed it the most. Even though she was struggling to make ends meet, she made sure the people in her community and hospitals near her, all had proper PPE. She also donated to the homecare agency we works at. She sent in PPE for her fellow caretakers and masks for our patients that were not given. Even though she didn’t have to do that, she knew we were more at risk since we travel to our patients homes and she wanted us and the patients to be safe.
Fiona did not ask anybody for help or for money. She did this all on her own and I would like to nominate her because she has the biggest heart and deserves some appreciation. I’m so grateful for her because our agency did not provide PPE and without even asking, Fiona took it upon herself to get us and her community the necessary PPE since we were the epicenter of the pandemic.

I’m so grateful for her because our agency did not provide PPE and without even asking, Fiona took it upon herself to get us and her community the necessary PPE since we were the epicenter of the pandemic
THE MITESH & TEJAS SHAH STORY
I am really proud of my sons – Mitesh and Tejas Shah. In a time when lots of children are at home trying to pass the time and build skills, their first impulse was to utilize their skills to help people. Mitesh began with his learning and trying out new editing tools in his building his own YouTube channel for kids. Because he learned so much, he helped a struggling family friend with a small business by putting together “We are Still Open for business” video. From there, he and my older son decided to launch TechBrothers4Good providing pro-bono technical services to small businesses or non profits around the US and Canada. They have been super busy and I as a mother am super grateful that they are giving back in the way they can to help small businesses when they need it most.

They have been super busy and I as a mother am super grateful that they are giving back in the way they can to help small businesses when they need it most
THE CATRINA COOK STORY
Everyone thinks their mom is great, until they have met mine. My mom, Catrina Cook, is the Director of the Environmental Services Department for the City of Auburn in Auburn, AL. She is smart, loyal, compassionate, forward thinking, people-centered, and a dynamic leader. She understands how to provide exceptional public service and how to do her part in keeping our community safe, healthy, and beautiful.
Environmental Services is one of the most overlooked departments in a city’s local government. However it is arguably one of the most essential. Residents expect for garbage, bulky waste (trash), and recycling to be collected. And, even in the midst of a global pandemic, those expectations were continuously met and often exceeded. As essential workers, my mom and her team, have worked and continue to work around the clock to ensure all routes were maintained and all residents felt safe. COVID-19 did not stop my mom from leading from the front, building a stronger community, and being an impactful public servant. Many residents do not fully understand the risk one can encounter doing a job such as this, but my mom does it with so much grace as she knows the services they provide are an integral part of the quality of life our community has come to expect.
Therefore, it is without question that I nominate my mom for her noble life of sacrifice and service. With over 20 years of service at the City of Auburn and her pervasive impact on thousands of lives, she is quite deserving of this honor. I continue to remain proud to be connected to her and call her my mom, my very own heroine. Her selfless service inspires me to always leave things better than the way that I found them.

Her selfless service inspires me to always leave things better than the way that I found them.

THE MACKENZIE MCCLOUD STORY
When I became a HOBY fellow, unfortunately it was during a time when the organization was actively working to be anti-racist. I loved my experience despite my isolation and a unique treatment because of my race (I am a Black woman), I came back the following year to help facilitate. Fast forward 5+ years, I currently am an Urban Teacher. I work in Dallas Independent School District and I am studying to earn my Masters in Education from Johns Hopkins University School of Education.
Covid has changed the way I educate drastically. My school district serves low SES students. Distance learning has presented many challenges. My students have not had internet and are forced to remain in unfavorable situations. We are preparing to begin our upcoming school year and plan to have students meeting in person. My school district only provides us $200 to prepare our classrooms. I know I need more than that in order to create a safe and calming environment for my students and myself. This donation will ensure I have the means to do so.
“Covid has changed the way I educate drastically. My school district serves low SES students. Distance learning has presented many challenges.”
THE KIRTAN PARTEKH STORY
At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a small Instagram competition that Kirtan was taking part in a competition to design a logo for the Olympics as if they were being held in your own city in 2020 and he created a logo to submit for it. Once he shared his design with his followers on Instagram, he noticed that people were really buying into the idea of helping create a design. As he shared his final design, someone told him they would buy a shirt with the design on it. This led him to create a shirt with the design on it and he decided that during the trying times amidst the pandemic, that he would donate 100% of the profits to Open Hand Atlanta (an organization that gives balanced meals to food insecure senior citizens — two very vulnerable groups during this pandemic).
He thought that the project would be a one time project to donate a couple hundred dollars, but the project took off and he sold over 700 shirts and raised just under $10,000 total to donate to Open Hand Atlanta. Because of the success, he has now created an actual company called theteeshirt.co that creates community inspired and based designs to raise money for various charities. Instead of the products coming first for him and the charities coming second, his company starts by deciding on a charity to benefit and then designing around the cause and creating apparel that the Atlanta based community can rally around. He is utilizing his talents and social circle to not only benefit the community, but finding creative outlets to do so. Finding ways to help his community has always been at the forefront of his actions and especially this project.

He thought that the project would be a one time project to donate a couple hundred dollars, but the project took off and he sold over 700 shirts and raised just under $10,000 total to donate to Open Hand Atlanta.

THE ADITYA AGRAWAL STORY
As COVID-19 spread, I feared for my parent’s health. Buying groceries – the most basic human need – was something we had to think twice about. I wanted to do something to fix that. My friends and I came up with the idea of launching SpeeDelivery, a free grocery delivery service for the elderly in the Houston area. Grocery stores were offering deliveries 10 days upon receipt of order and surcharging. We knew our idea had a lot of potential and we wanted to start helping our community as quickly as possible to maximize this impact.
My team and I worked continuously for over 30 hours after conceiving the idea. I led our team to profile our intended customers. As we targeted the elderly, we needed something that was easy to use. I laid the framework for a minimally viable product. After all, we just needed a way for people to enter their orders and match the orders to volunteers who would shop and deliver. Next, I had to capitalize on each teammate’s strengths and pair them with the right set of tasks as time was of the essence. It was my well-laid-out strategy and technical framework that got us across the finish line. Since the launch of the service, we have been able to deliver $400 worth of groceries to over 20 households. Being interviewed on TV by CW39 Houston has just been one of the many sources of gratifications we have had as a team.
“Buying groceries – the most basic human need – was something we had to think twice about. I wanted to do something to fix that.”
THE TERENCE LESTER STORY
Terence Lester is both serving on the frontline of Covid-19 and making a difference towards social injustice. He and his wife started Love Beyond Walls, an organization that brings food, shelter, and other services to the homeless, including their latest program, Love Sinks In. Portable hand washing stations originating in Atlanta and expanding across the US for the homeless during Covid-19. He is also an activist, author, and speaker on economic inequalities and creator of the Dignity Museum in Atlanta.

He and his wife started Love Beyond Walls, an organization that brings food, shelter, and other services to the homeless

THE FOOD4LIVES STORY
Coronavirus caused the first disruption to Food4Lives two years of continuous service. With the city shutdown and limits on operations, homeless services and shelters across Atlanta were shutdown for several weeks in March 2020, and most are still reduced.
After the reopening of Food4Lives food service to the homeless on April 2, hundreds of families, college students, and high schoolers have come together to serve dinner continuously for 68 days, giving over 8,000 plates of food. Through word of mouth we have expanded to over 25 homeless communities around Atlanta. Through the trust we’ve built through daily contact, we’ve been able to give individual care to over a dozen individuals to meet their most important needs such as shoes, medicine, underwear, and jobs.
Our Mission is to promote community through service by connecting people with the heart to serve with those humble enough to receive help. The work of our volunteers has inspired private and corporate donors to both improve and expand our services. We’ve had the privilege to cater lunch to six hospitals and the Fulton County Jail to honor our civil servants, whose bravery is evident now more than ever.
Most recently, the USDA Farmers to Families Program under the Coronavirus Stimulus Bill has sponsored fresh produce boxes to support American Farmers and further expanded our outreach. Fresh produce has allowed us to cook more nutritious meals for our civil servants and homeless community, and has been directly distributed to low-income families who prefer to cook for themselves.
We are part of a massive effort that transcends our organization and its members. We’ve had the privilege to meet peaceful protestors, policemen, and elders and children from neighborhoods across Atlanta. We’ve met dozens of organizations doing important work to serve the community in areas of healthcare, food and housing insecurity, civil rights, and justice. More than ever before is the interconnectedness of all these transparent efforts, and we pray for the continued vigilance and support from the people finding their active roles to play from home through awareness, financial support, and direct action.
“…we’ve been able to give individual care to over a dozen individuals to meet their most important needs…”
THE FRIENDS OF REFUGEES STORY
The mission of Friends of Refugees, located in Clarkston, GA, is to empower refugees through Well-Being, Education, and Employment. During COVID-19 pandemic, they have offered the following programs:
- Clarkston Free Food Drive- Thru distribution for “Happy Juneteenth”
- Education to the refugee community on where/how to be tested for COVID-19
- Continuation of education programs for students while being quarantined
- Partnership with Indian Creek Elementary to create a fun summer camp to bridge the gap in learning so they can catch up
- Their Embrace Refugee Birth program assists refugees mothers by education, advocacy, and empowerment , including mom’s circles, exercise groups, and peer breastfeeding support
- They provided Covid-19 Rent Assistance to those who may need it
The USPAACC-SE meal donation drive is a small token of our appreciation to selfless healthcare workers. This was made possible by gracious donations from our corporate partners and Asian American businesses. A special thank you to SunTrust now Truist , Southern Company, E-Ring Inc., GMI Group Inc., MBM International Logistics, Metasys Technologies & Softpath System. We are very proud to share that all meals were catered by minority owned small businesses. Ravi Chander, CEO, Softpath System and President, USPAACC-SE.
As a volunteer with the program, I can’t express all of the good this organization does for the community, even without a pandemic. With COVID-19, this organization has stepped up to keep the refugee community educated and well informed with how to cope, while navigating the experience of being a refugee within the United States. Their programs extend beyond food and clothing. This organization is passionate about ensuring refugees adjust to the norms of the Western world.
I personally volunteer with a family to assist with the children’s homework. Until I began, I never truly understood the privilege I had growing up in the US. Things we take for granted, such as your parents speaking the same language as the norm, learning the same history, math, etc, make a huge difference. When the parents can’t help, how can we expect refugee children to succeed without external help? The relationships formed between my children and the family has far exceeded what I could have ever imagined. It gives my children an opportunity to learn to love, help and give, without expecting anything in return.

I can’t express all of the good this organization does for the community, even without a pandemic

THE DEESHA PANCHAL STORY
Deesha saw a lot of kids losing hope during Covid-19 and wants everyone to chase there dreams! She has been working diligently to create cohorts of teen lead projects to help inspire the next generation of change makers. She reached out to many youth organizations to launch Georgia Youth Leaders – an organization that helps teens continue their passion projects and make a real impact in their communities. They have already reached 8+ student organizations including my organization Seeds Of Knowledge.
Georgia Youth Leaders is a bridge connecting change makers with teens trying to find their passions through volunteering. They will offer mentorships to students looking to start their own organizations, connect students to volunteer work that interests them, and develop our daughter organizations to tackle international problems.
Student Space is an online platform that will be available on the Georgia Youth Leaders website. This online platform will provide videos and lessons to high school students all over Georgia about how they can create their own community projects. Completing the course content will award students with service hours, and an opportunity to join Georgia Youth Leaders! Student Space will be present on a large scale since the goal is to have the Georgia Board of Education advocate this online platform.
She was nominated for Disney Dreamers Academy in March a selective program that chooses 100 teens from the US. Even though the program was canceled she has a sense of determination to keep going and came back with a new sense of purpose to inspire and launch a Podcast. She continues to inspire teens every day through her podcast – Finding Your Why. It is available for free on all platforms to share amazing stories to teach kids how to find their passions.
She has been working diligently to create cohorts of teen lead projects to help inspire the next generation of change makers.
THE USPAACC-SE STORY
The United States Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation – Southeast Region (USPAACC-SE), recently fed 3,000 frontline medical workers at Grady Hospital in Atlanta, GA in a show of gratitude and support for frontline medical workers as they battle the on-going global pandemic, COVID 19. USPAACC-SE Board Members wanted to show their deep appreciation to those who are putting their lives on the lines to keep the people of Atlanta safe.
The USPAACC-SE meal donation drive is a small token of our appreciation to selfless healthcare workers. This was made possible by gracious donations from our corporate partners and Asian American businesses. A special thank you to SunTrust now Truist , Southern Company, E-Ring Inc., GMI Group Inc., MBM International Logistics, Metasys Technologies & Softpath System. We are very proud to share that all meals were catered by minority owned small businesses. Ravi Chander, CEO, Softpath System and President, USPAACC-SE.
This initiative was the brainchild of board member, Amanda Hammett, CEO of Core Elevation, Inc. and would not have been possible without the minority owned small businesses who partnered with USPAACC-SE to provide each delicious meal for the Grady healthcare workers.
Cafe Bombay
Cafe Cubism
Anus Catering
Giovannis Restaurant
Twisted Tacos
In addition to feeding 3,000 frontline medical workers at Grady, USPAACC-SE has also committed to feeding an additional 2,000 frontline medical workers at Novant Health in Charlotte, NC later in June. Between the two events, USPAACC-SE will donate a total of 5,000 meals for frontline medical workers.

Board Members wanted to show their deep appreciation to those who are putting their lives on the lines to keep the people of Atlanta safe.
THE LINDSAY WILLIAMS STORY
Lindsay is a counselor at the Powers ferry Elementary in Marietta. This is a title 1 school with lots of kids who need emotional and financial support.
Lindsay has been reaching out to families who have recently lost jobs, who don’t have transportation to pick up school provided lunches. She has been delivering groceries, Walmart gift cards, Cobb link – Uber/Lyft gift cards to these families. She has also been collecting laptops/tablets for kids who have no device at home to complete school work. She’s been motivating the children to do their class work by offering pizza parties on Friday.
It’s truly amazing what she does for her community! It’s a treat to see the smile on the kids faces when we go to drop off the groceries!
She’s the rock that’s there for these children when their life is full of so many uncertainties.

She’s the rock that’s there for these children when their life is full of so many uncertainties.
THE ELISA WASZCZENIUK STORY
I’d like to thank my sister that is a nurse who runs towards the line of danger as the rest of us retreat into the safety of our homes.
She signed up to take care of mothers and babies not the battle that’s going on now, but she is there and helping fighting this war regardless. Elisa has chosen selflessness over self preservation, not just today in the war against the invisible enemy that is Covid-19 but every time she steps into her scrubs. Elisa also has a 2 year old and a 6 month old baby at home that she risks bringing germs to. Not only is she a hero to her family but she is a hero in my eyes too! I wish I was as selfless and brave as she is.
Thank you Elisa for being the hero I look to, it is never easy work and only a few will understand why you do what you do but stay strong and ready to fight another day!

A nurse who runs towards the line of danger as the rest of us retreat into the safety of our homes.
THE ALYSSA LOGAN STORY
My girlfriend’s coworker told me a story of how she helped a patient connect with her family before they underwent surgery. Due to restrictions on absolutely no visitors in the hospital, this patient who was undergoing a hip surgery was unable to have their family there to be there before or after surgery.
Alyssa took some extra time in between tending to her numerous other patients on the floor to setup this elderly patient on the floor’s ipad and connected them so they could see each other before surgery! This experience was corroborated by a doctor on the floor and the family was very grateful and would not stop going on about how much they appreciated this.
Alyssa’s coworkers adore her and she was even mentioned in the San Diego Union-Tribune about how she is always caring and advocating for her patients. She is always putting others before herself and that’s the reason I believe she is deserving of this award and one of the many reasons why I love her.

She is always putting others before herself
THE SUMEET BAHL STORY
The past few months have brought a new world order upon all of mankind, one that many have never witnessed. My son, Dr. Sumeet Bahl, MD an Interventional Radiologist from the COVID-19 epicenter in New York City has made multiple sacrifices, way beyond his call of duty as a compassionate & caring physician for his own patients.
He sacrificed his own well being by sending off for safety his wife (Gayatri), expecting their first child, to her parents. Needless to say this decision did not come easy but he ensured his wife and his unborn child were safe first. In pursuit of his passion, life’s calling and deep desire to help others, knowing that his wife and son are safe has helped him to stay focussed & work relentlessly to save many lives in the midst of the ongoing pandemic. At the frontline, he has witnessed many deaths and sufferings, spending days, weeks and now months away from his family so that more people will get to see theirs healthy and alive. Along with his team of nurses, PA’s & other health care workers, my son has not stopped doing all he can to save lives and is not giving up the battle in the fight against COVID-19.
While seemingly no end in site, he was given respite after almost 9 weeks to fly home to be with his beloved Gayatri & son. Their first glimpse of each other brought about an overwhelming and emotional feeling of happiness with my son saying to his son ‘Hi son, your daddy’s home’. Growing up he will be proud to learn a lot from his dad on his story of courage, conviction and sacrifice. I’m sure there are patients who are no longer here, who if they could, would love to appreciate my son ” Dr. Sumeet Bahl” for making a difference and doing all he could to keep them safe and alive.
That’s my son, aka Mr Sunshine-Brighten up anybody!!

He has witnessed many deaths and sufferings, spending days, weeks and now months away from his family so that more people will get to see theirs healthy and alive
THE NICHOLE GRAY STORY
Ms. Nichole Gray is an elementary school teacher at Lake Forest Elementary, a Title 1 school. While on a routine basis, she buys books for her classroom kids, sources laptops, etc., during these unprecedented times she has taken upon herself to coordinate efforts to help parents who have lost their jobs. She has gone above and beyond of the role of a teacher to make a difference in her community. Below is a glimpse of some of the things she has done out of the goodness of her heart.
Family #1 – The student’s father had lost his job. With her grass root efforts, she financially supported this family with groceries and rent for May. Just recently found out that the dad has found construction work! A big Yayyyy!
Family #2 – Mom with 3 kids had her hours cut. She provided $100 worth of groceries and $50 cash for incidentals to help her during this time.
Family #3 – Both parents lost their jobs and were out of employment for about a month. Had yard work job set up for Dad and his nephew and another lead with more work after that!
She continues to lead her grass root efforts to coordinate funds and products to channel them to the families who need assistance at this time.

During these unprecedented times she has taken upon herself to coordinate efforts to help parents who have lost their jobs
THE LUKE JORGENSEN’S THEATRE FOR YOUTH STORY
When the coronavirus pandemic rang down the curtain on their slated production of “Alice in Wonderland,” the Boston College students in Luke Jorgensen’s Theatre for Youth course wanted to ensure that, somehow, a show would go on for their audience of local K-3 students.
The 16-member cast pivoted their plans instead, making home videos of themselves telling their favorite fairy tales, which Jorgensen—an associate professor of the practice and assistant chair of the Boston College Theatre Department—shared with teachers at the nine area schools at which the class was scheduled to perform this spring, including two on-campus locations: BC’s Child Care Center and Campus School.
“The students in the schools we visit look forward to our performances,” said Jorgensen, adding that it was important for his class to honor its commitment, since the teachers often use the visit as the center of a curriculum, reading the play or story to their classes before the BC performance.
The students’ retooled “production” is playing to a wide virtual audience eager to be entertained by the talented thespians—most of them Theatre Department majors and minors—who used imaginative props and other effects to put creative spins on such classics as “The Three Little Pigs,” “Little Red Riding Hood,” “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” and “The Little Mermaid.”
“I made the stories available not only to all the teachers, but also online [at the “Fairy Tales for Free” Facebook group] for anyone to use in classrooms or at home to amuse their kids,” Jorgensen said. “They are going all over!”
Within a week, 160 people joined the group, and many more teachers have contacted Jorgensen to request the video.
“I recited ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’ and made a little movie to go along with it,” said Deborah Aboaba ’21. “I used effects from the Mac photo booth app. I wanted to make something that would make a child smile. The filters on Macs always make me laugh, so I figured it would be the same for children. I can imagine this pandemic is really confusing for a child, so any levity or distraction I can offer, no matter if only one child sees it, is what I wanted to accomplish.”
Among the local schools whose students are viewing the fairy tales are Saint Columbkille Partnership School, Thomas A. Edison Middle School, Winship Elementary School, and Baldwin Early Learning Pilot Academy in Brighton; Young Achievers Science and Math Pilot School, Mattahunt Elementary School, and Mildred Avenue Middle School in Boston’s Mattapan neighborhood; and Nabnasset Elementary School in Westford. The videos also will be featured at the University’s upcoming virtual Arts Festival, April 23-25.
Senior Michelle Zhou chose a personal childhood favorite, “The Princess and the Pea,” for its message of hope and courage.
“My hope is that kids will have fun watching us tell these stories. If we could help kids feel a little more brave with our fairy tale home videos, especially during this uncertain point in history, that would be incredible. I am so grateful that even though we are apart, our class is able to come together and share stories. I’m so glad we have the opportunity to share our joy of storytelling and performing with others. I have had wonderful feedback from teachers and terrific comments on the Facebook page.” Jorgensen said. “It is obviously less than ideal compared with performing and interacting with the children in person, but I am proud that we were able to honor our commitment to the children of the BC community and beyond. The show, as they say, must go on!”

If we could help kids feel a little more brave with our fairy tale home videos, especially during this uncertain point in history, that would be incredible
THE Dr. OLUSOLA OLUBOWALE STORY
I struggled with nominating him as it’s been about 3 weeks since I heard about the award cause he is so publicity shy. However if anyone truly deserves this award, it is my husband. He is a physician and current internal medicine resident in NYC which is the epicenter of the epidemic. From the beginning he has spent most of his rotations in covid units, taken extra shifts to make up for his colleagues who had contacted the virus and even though I have seen him afraid, worried, sad at the unprecedented and unimaginable losses, seeing patients die without any family present, having to treat his colleagues who had also contracted the virus, I have also seen him pour through research after a 12 hour shift, talk to physicians in other hospitals and states trying to find out what they could do differently that would help their patients recover. I’ve seen him buzzing with excitement when he gets home and patients have been successfully weaned off the ventilator, when a patient at death’s door has been kept alive throughout his shift.
He tells me Chi, I want to know that I did everything I could, he sees every patient as a real person with a life, family, goals and dreams and would fight to ensure that they have every chance to survive. He is not just a great physician but a phenomenal father and husband, since the pandemic he lovingly taught our eldest son that daddy can’t be ‘jump hugged’ when he comes home until he has showered…it was emotionally unsettling at first but like every other thing he handles it with such grace. Our baby is so excited to see him and spends his time before bed happily relaxed in daddy’s arms. It is amazing to me that he is still able to be an attentive father and husband with all the chaos and obvious exhaustion. He is truly phenomenal.

He sees every patient as a real person with a life, family, goals and dreams and would fight to ensure that they have every chance to survive
THE ANU PURI STORY
I would like to nominate Anu Puri for her commitment to serve the homeless in our community. During these unprecedented times, Anu has taken the initiative to feed the homeless in the metro Atlanta area in working with Non-Profit Organizations. She has prepared meals for thousands of homeless over the past few weeks.
Anu is a single mother, and started a catering business to take care of her family. Even though her business has been impacted during these times, she has selflessly channeled her skill and energy to cook and pack meals for delivery to non-profit organizations, who then distribute the packed food to the homeless.
As her good work came to be known, it has inspired many in the community to step forward and fund additional meals. Many in the community, including her friends have joined her to prepare meals for distribution. This has helped her to increase her capacity to further serve the homeless.
Anu’s story is inspirational for she has put the interests of others who she does not even know ahead of her own in selflessly serving the community.

She has put the interests of others who she does not even know ahead of her own in selflessly serving the community
THE OLUFUNKE OBALASE STORY
She is passionate about her care for the residents. She choose to attend to her clients at this critical time rather than neglecting them in-spite of possible consequences.
A true hero is never fully defined until called upon to put everything on the line in the service of humanity. Olufunke Obalase who works as a Caregiver and Direct Support Professional in an Assisted living homes is my hero. She is a selfless worker. On one of her days she gave shower to 11 residents in spite of being near “close of her duty for the day”. On resumption the following day 4 of the residents tested positive to COVID-19. She had to isolate for 14 days with no pay to be sure she is Asymptomatic.
Instead of being discouraged from resuming to the job she elected to reinforce her PPE and resumed on the 15th day haven tested negative. She is passionate about her care for the residents. She choose to attend to her clients at this critical time rather than neglecting them in-spite of possible consequences.

THE ANNA DECKER STINSON STORY
Since being a little girl, Anna Decker Stinson has always had a strong heart for justice, with matching courage. She has always been a level-headed “quiet watcher,” with a pure heart. She listens more than she speaks, and when she speaks her words are worth hearing. In middle school, Anna decided to work in criminal justice when she grew up, and she never wavered from her vision.
While studying Criminal Justice in college, Anna worked night shifts in the Baldwin County Jail. In January of 2020, Anna entered the physically and mentally rigorous 11-week Mandate through GPSTC (the Police Academy). She graduated from the academy in March of 2020 and became a Sherriff’s Deputy. She now serves on the night shift of the Baldwin County Sherriff’s Office, patrolling from 6PM to 6AM, to keep the community safe.
On April 25, 2020, Baldwin County was reported as one of Georgia’s “COVID-19 hotspots,” per the Union-Recorder newspaper. Anna is working on the front lines, where she must handle “full contact” situations, including handcuffing people and transporting them to jail to be booked. Anna is aware of the risks and dangers. She boldly serves her community, putting the safety of those in Baldwin County first, with dedication, determination, strength and courage.
Anna is a principled woman of substance, purpose, determination, grit and conviction. She is well deserving of this recognition, because of the sacrifice she is making each night to protect the welfare and safety of the citizens in her community.

She boldly serves her community, putting the safety of those in Baldwin County first, with dedication, determination, strength and courage.
THE THERESA OGUNJIMI STORY
Theresa has been so selfless enough to put her life on the the line to save lives of others by working tirelessly to fight the spread of COVID-19 and treat infected people. To me, there can be no bigger inspiration than this.
She gives me and many others hope to live our lives and also do our parts for humanity.
She is a true hero! She’s an amazing health worker as the health and life of others is of top most priority to her.
Over 95% of the time I call to check up on my friend, Theresa, she is always at the hospital helping out in one way or the other.
Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, Theresa has left the comfort of her home, husband and child to support in the hospitals.
Seeing her sacrifice her comfort, time and loved ones to help those in need has inspired me to reach out to those who due to this lockdown cannot afford to eat 2 times a day.
Theresa Ogunjimi is an amazing mother, daughter and sister. She is selfless in all she does. During this COVID-19 pandemic, she has been working to care for others while she has her husband and son at home. Her motto is ’others before self’ and she has exhibited this trait since she was a little girl. This is the reason why she went into the caring profession.
She has been working multiple 12hr shifts and even working shifts that other staff are not able to fill for whatever reason. She is missing time with her own family to care for other families, doing what she is called to do. I hope she is recognized for all she is doing putting herself at risk during this pandemic. It takes a special kind of person to do this and one of that special kind of person is my sister- Theresa!!!
My wife is an epitome of kindness, she spends 80% of the week 12hrs of each day in the hospital taking care of COVID-19 patients. Putting their health above everything. I really wish she could have more time for me and our son who is just 9yrs. While others are backing out, she is doing more service to people who need help. She’s so committed to her job.
There has been times when she will call me on FaceTime at work crying because of the emotional stress and expectations being placed on them as nurses, to stories of how there’s either always a rapid response or a code blue on these patients because of the COVID-19.
I remember a particular time she came back from work with her Memorial Hermann cafeteria voucher because she “got caught caring” and was nominated for the Daisy award by a patients family because of the length she went for their family and I quote “we as a family would like to nominate Ms Theresa for her selfless act and care towards our dad at this difficult times in our lives. She has been very compassionate with her care and had made it a duty of hers to keep the family up to date with my dads care because we are unable to be there for him at this time, but having Ms Theresa as his nurse has calmed us down as a family to know he’s in great care”
Most times my wife (Ms Theresa) lol, comes home so tired and barely able to eat and just showers and goes straight to bed.
Even with the emotional stress involved with her day to day huddle, she still finds time to make sure our son and I are still staying safe by buying gloves, mask, vitamin supplements and a list of them just for us to stay safe not really caring for her own self because it’s just in her nature and a passion of hers to care for other people .
On her off days , she sleeps in so late, and when she’s up, she tries to cook , clean and make time for our family movie nights. I’m proud of my wife, she deserves the best in this life. If any one deserves this, it would be my wife. She’s my HERO and a HERO to our son.

THE CHINMAYA STORY
Everyone needs something to ground them at times like these.
With the onset of COVID-19 pandemic, the world is going through a very challenging time. Apart from health concerns, there is significant emotional impact on people in the form of fear, depression and anxiety because of social distancing. Everyone needs something to ground them at times like these.
Chinmaya Mission Alpharetta (CMA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. CMA serves over 500 families and 700 kids in North Atlanta.
CMA was quick to realize and address the need of the community to deal with the pandemic. CMA instituted programs that help the kids and adults stay engaged with the broader community through over 30 creative online Sunday classes for kids, opportunities to grow spiritually for Adults through over 10 study group sessions and twice a day prayer circles for everyone. CMA organized a virtual town hall with prominent Doctors in the community to support senior citizens with any questions related to COVID. CMA is also conducting a donation drive to support the United Way of Forsyth County to better cope with the increased demand for help in the community during this crisis. CMA has been a hero in the life of kids and adults alike.

She gives me and many others hope to live our lives and also do our parts for humanity.
THE LOLA AJALA STORY
She insisted on showing up to work to take care of her patients knowing fully well that she was at risk of being infected.
Healthcare workers are at the front line of the COVID-19 outbreak response and as such are exposed to hazards that put them at risk of infection. They are truly our superheroes! My mother, Funmilola Ajala Allen, happens to be one of them. She is a very dedicated CNA working at 3 different senior assisted living facilities. I remember when an index case of COVID-19 was diagnosed at one of the homes she works at, she insisted on showing up to work to take care of her patients knowing fully well that she was at risk of being infected.
I am nominating my mother because she is a 56-year old who is very passionate about her job, and is willing to put her life on the line to take care of her patients. One of her patients’ families left her a note (see attached) recently to show their appreciation when they realized how much sacrifice she is making to take care of their mother.


THE JASON STAMPER STORY
Dr. Stamper has been working tirelessly to ensure that the students and staff at Banneker High School feel supported during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite having to stay self-quarantined at home while we shifted from in-person learning to digital learning, Dr. Stamper ensured that the transition was seamless for both students and teachers. Over the past few weeks, he has sacrificed his sleep, his time with his family, his own health and energy, and more to make sure that staff members are supported, that students have access to devices, meals, and learning materials, and that there is constant and clear communication to parents.
He has consistently advocated for our student needs and shown both compassion and responsibility in every step of his leadership during this crisis. It is no easy feat to balance the needs of so many different stakeholders (students, parents, staff, district officials, and more!), but he has done so selflessly and with no expectations in return. I’m so thankful to be working under his steady guidance during this uncertain time, and I am inspired by his service to our students and those that he works with.
He has sacrificed his sleep, his time with his family, his own health and energy.