LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — Olivia Venturella, a 2026 Lee Volunteer Award winner, developed a passion for giving back at an early age and continues to dedicate her time and talents while balancing a busy high school schedule.
“Honestly, I get more out of it than you know, I give to other people, but really, I just like to see the impact that I make on other people's lives, whether it be a big impact or just a smile on their face.,” says Venturella.
Venturella’s impact extends beyond Lima Central Catholic High School, where she is a student. She volunteers with several organizations in the community, including Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District, Lima Memorial Health System and the Lima Optimist Club Safety City. She also participates in Vacation Bible School programs.
At school, Venturella tutors classmates in math and social studies and serves as co-president of the service club, which recently completed an Acts of Kindness Challenge. She credits her family for inspiring her commitment to volunteering.
“I love to do it, that's the number one reason why I do it. But seeing my family do it, you know, my grandparents, my parents, all give back to the community, I think it helps me grow as a person. It gives me skills. It makes me more empathetic and help me understand the things that people go through,” says Venturella.
Her aunt, Cara Venturella, who nominated her for the award, said Olivia’s dedication to serving others has been evident from a young age.
“She has a servant's heart, from the time she was little, has always been dedicated to helping others, serving others in one capacity or another, and it doesn't, it doesn't ever end, even if she's booked solid, she wants to continue to help others and serve the community in any way that she's available to do so,,” says Cara Venturella, Nominated Olivia for Lee Volunteer Award.
Venturella said encouraging young people to volunteer is important for building lifelong habits of service.
“Because It inspires them to serve later in their lives. It can inspire other kids to do it, and also, maybe you can impact other kids. You know, it's not just a kid serving adults, it can be kids serving other kids, and that can help them maybe feel better about themselves, feel better about their lives.,” adds Venturella.
