Karma for Cara Microgrants help fund exceptional service projects led by youth 18 and under working to better their communities. Read about our microgrant recipient, Anela, a 15-year-old who creates activity bags to share with pediatric cancer patients in hospitals around Lexington,KY.

1. What inspired you to start the Give, Love, Hope Project?

After shaving my head for cancer patients in 2012 I realized I could make a difference in the world. Community service became a very important part of my life. From making cards to cancer patients to volunteering at a local deaf school, service holds a big spot in my heart. I want to be remembered as someone who made a difference.

2. Why is your work important to you?

My work is important to me because I know I am making a difference at a young age, I still have my whole life to continue making a difference and doing even bigger things. I want to people to be inspired to help others and do service by seeing my good work, I want to be a role model for teens.

3. How did the money from the microgrant help with your project?

The money I got from Karma for Cara allowed me the budget to buy the bags along with the items to fill them. Each bag for the patients has a unique coloring book, colored pencils and a sharpener all in a tote bag.

4. What message of giving back do you have for others?

I want others to know you are never too young to make a difference and that one person alone can impact the world. Service has made my life have meaning and it gives me something to work for while helping others. Service is rewarding because you aren’t only helping other people, you feel good about yourself knowing you are impacting others lives. There is never a dream too big.