Today, we’d like to introduce you to Avinash Cheng-Patel.
Avinash, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I am the co-founder of a nonprofit called Under My Umbrella, and I just finished 8th grade.
I started when I was 8 with just my family. We would go downtown with ice water, ice pops, and snacks and give it to whoever needed it.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
One of my projects this year was to adopt an apartment for someone in need. I worked with our local shelter to furnish an empty apartment.
Some of the struggles were to stay within budget and to get everything needed. I had to ensure I bought everything, including toilet paper, utensils, cleaning supplies, and dryer sheets. I had to put together furniture and ensure that the decorations fit the person’s style.
One obstacle was hanging up the curtains because the rod was right over the concrete, so I had to take it off and re-position it on a stud. The whole project was fun but difficult because I had to work on it after school. I learned how to budget, to design an apartment, and to plan ahead.
The person who received the housing was very grateful. I’m glad I could meet him in person, and I hope that he is still enjoying his new home.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am 14 years old. I just finished middle school. I have a big brother and a dog named Moro. I mainly focus on school.
I am proud of my nonprofit because we have been able to help people like the person whose apartment I helped design and furnish. The cool thing is that I’m just a normal person who can help people, so basically, everyone can help someone, too.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success for me is when you do something good and well and learn something. The adopted apartment was successful because I finished the project on time, within budget and I learned from the whole experience.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Under-My-Umbrella.org
- Instagram: @Under_My_Umbrella_DFW
- Facebook: @UnderMyUmbrellaDFW
Image Credits
@J.Winni
