May Volunteer of the Month–Parth Gupta

Parth Gupta began his volunteer journey in 2024, just before starting sixth grade. He has already made a meaningful impact in the community.

As a member of Volunteer Programs ' Youth in Action, Parth is especially passionate about helping others and composting.

Parth's interest in sustainability started early-he launched a composting initiative at his elementary school in third grade. While he has hoped to bring a similar program to his middle school, logistical challenges have made it difficult so far. However, he has remained diligent and has found additional ways to share his composting knowledge.

He enjoys volunteering at the opens in a new windowRonald McDonald House through Youth in Action.

There, he contributes his time to support families in need. He has also taken on a leadership role by organizing and leading composting workshops. Parth shares his knowledge and encourages others to adopt environmentally friendly practices.

An eighth-grade student at opens in a new windowGentry Middle School, Parth has lived in Columbia most of his life after being born in Vancouver, Canada. Outside of volunteering, he stays active with ice hockey and lacrosse, and enjoys baking and cooking in his free time.

Described by his family as fun, compassionate and helpful, Parth brings energy and kindness to everything he does. It doesn't matter whether he's on the ice, in the kitchen or giving back to his community. Parth is driven by a genuine desire to make a positive difference.

If you're interested in following Parth's example and learning more about volunteering with the City of Columbia, visit the Volunteer Programs page.