For over three decades, Richard Ellsworth has devoted thousands of hours to volunteer initiatives that uplift communities, empower individuals, and create lasting change. From mentoring youth to organizing disaster relief, his hands-on approach to service reflects a deep commitment to making the world a better place.
Leading a mentorship initiative connecting at-risk youth with professional role models. Over 15 years, the program has guided more than 400 young people toward college enrollment and career readiness, fostering confidence and resilience in underserved communities.
Organized rapid-response volunteer teams during natural disasters including Hurricane Maria relief efforts and Midwest flooding recovery. Coordinated logistics for supply distribution, temporary shelter setup, and long-term rebuilding projects across multiple states.
Served as build captain for 22 home construction projects, managing teams of 30+ volunteers per build. Ensured safety protocols, quality standards, and timely completion while creating welcoming environments for first-time homeowners.
Weekly commitment to the Greater Metro Food Bank, sorting and distributing over 50,000 pounds of food annually. Helped redesign the intake process to serve 40% more families during peak demand periods, particularly during holiday seasons.
Joined local Habitat for Humanity chapter as weekend crew member, sparking a lifelong passion for community building.
Established a structured mentoring program partnering with three local school districts to support underserved students.
Recognized by the Governor's Office for contributing over 5,000 hours of documented volunteer service.
Received the National Council of Nonprofits Volunteer Leadership Award for sustained excellence in community service.
Surpassed 10,000 cumulative volunteer hours while continuing to actively serve in four organizations.
Annual garden restoration event at Riverside Park. Volunteers will prepare raised beds, plant spring crops, and install new irrigation lines.
Join 200+ volunteers for a comprehensive river bank cleanup, native planting initiative, and water quality testing along the Maplewood Creek corridor.
Prepared and distributed 1,200 holiday meal packages to families in need across six neighborhoods. A record-breaking year for participation.
Assembled and distributed 850 backpacks filled with school supplies to students from low-income households in partnership with local businesses.
Completed framing and roofing on a new family home in the Brookhaven neighborhood. 34 volunteers contributed over 270 combined hours.
Celebrating the 2025 cohort of 28 mentees who have completed the program. Awards ceremony and college commitment announcements.
Richard's dedication to our mentorship program is unmatched. He doesn't just show up — he transforms lives. Our students consistently cite him as the reason they pursued higher education.
During the flood recovery, Richard organized logistics better than some professionals I've worked with. His calm leadership and genuine compassion inspired every volunteer on site.
As a mentee of Richard's program, I can say he changed the trajectory of my life. His belief in me when no one else did gave me the courage to pursue engineering.
Join us at an upcoming event or reach out to learn how you can make a difference.
