Augustus Holm, 19, of San Diego, first got interested in helping others in sixth grade, when he participated in a fundraiser for a local health clinic. Later he and some friends founded the Youth Philanthropy Council (Y.P.C.), California’s largest youth-run nonprofit. In December, the Y.P.C. organized a footwear drive, giving away 21,600 pairs of shoes in 24 hours to San Diegans in need and setting a Guinness World Record in the process.
Q: Why is philanthropy important to you?
A: My parents—especially my mom—instilled in me from a young age that if you are capable of helping another person, then it’s your duty to do so.
Q: How did you get so many shoes for the drive?
A: Originally, [footwear brand] Jellypop was donating 17,000 pairs of shoes. Then we found out the world record was 17,526. So we said, “Would you like to share a record with us?”
Q: How did the drive work?
A: We set up in a parking lot and people started lining up in their cars at 5:30 a.m. Volunteers met with each car to see what sizes and types of shoes they needed.
Q: Could you see your work making a difference for people?
A: That’s one of the best parts. A few people had tears of joy, and I gave out a lot of hugs. People are so grateful.
(This interview was edited and condensed for length and clarity.)