Why I Started Bright Light

After nearly a decade of living in New York City, I found myself reflecting on a conversation with a friend one summer day. We were discussing personal values, and I mentioned how much volunteering had meant to me in the past. That moment brought an unexpected realization: although volunteering was something I deeply valued, it had taken a backseat in my life.

The reasons are all too familiar—long workdays, the busyness of daily life, and the unpredictability of my schedule. I found myself yearning to reconnect with the joy of giving back, but I wanted it to fit into my life as it is today. I wanted to know that my efforts would make a meaningful impact, connect me with like-minded individuals, and take place outside of my workday.

After researching countless organizations, I discovered I wasn’t alone in this desire. Many people share the same wish to volunteer but face similar barriers. And so, the idea for Bright Light was born—a way to bridge the gap and make volunteering accessible for busy New Yorkers.

Bright Light is more than just an organization. It’s a movement to empower individuals, build connections, and create meaningful impact in our communities—all while embracing the reality of modern, busy lives.

If you’ve ever felt the same longing to give back but struggled to find opportunities that fit your schedule, Bright Light was created with you in mind. Together, we can reignite the spark of volunteering and bring light to the communities we call home.