LaShonda Tate

Just over a year and a half ago, LaShonda Tate was googling organizations to volunteer for and she came across The Honeycomb Project.  She immediately fell in love with Honeycomb because of their focus of children giving back to their communities–in addition to the variety and flexibility of their programming offered.

LaShonda has become one of their most committed project volunteers, volunteering 1-2 times per month for Honeycomb families. She loves to see parents and kids have fun and flourish. She takes pride in helping kids at such a young age, to become productive citizens of society. “One person really can make a difference,” she stresses.  “In my walk of life, volunteering was never influenced…now as a volunteer and being on the other side–I can see how impactful I can be.”

So what are some of LaShonda’s favorite Honeycomb events she provides leadership support at?? “I love animals, so the projects at Anti-Cruelty Project are amazing — kids love making those toys for animals and it’s great to see smiles on their faces.”  “One time, a staff facilitator brought out four rottweiler puppies and the kids went nuts…it was so fun!” Another favorite project is baking cookies at Ronald McDonald House. She loves interacting with all the families and making treats for others in need.

LaShonda says, “through my time of volunteering, it’s great to see some of the same families over the course of the year…and to see how they’ve grown.” LaShonda adds, “Honeycomb service projects are melting pots — there are families that travel from different communities in the city and suburbs.”  “These families will never run across each other in life but here they are, all together — working towards one common goal.”

LaShonda is a senior at Northeastern Illinois University. She is a Community Health major with a focus on public health and a passion to work with underserved communities and teenage mothers. On top of taking five classes, she is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, works in the University’s financial aid office and is a peer tutor for fellow classmates. LaShonda resides on the south side in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood.