Griffin Kapelus: Making a Difference and Transforming Lives

Griffin Kapelus, a dedicated student at the University of Vermont, is not your typical college student. While most students focus solely on their studies and personal growth, Kapelus has been actively involved in helping the homeless and combating food insecurity in Burlington, Vermont. Inspired by his parents’ commitment to making a difference and helping others, Kapelus has taken on the challenge of addressing income inequality and economic justice head-on.

Exploring Academic Interests and Realizing a Passion for Social Issues

Kapelus’s journey towards social justice began during his time at Hunter College, where he took part-time classes after a short break following high school. It was during an introductory writing class that Kapelus chose to write a paper on gentrification and displacement in Harlem, which sparked his passion for social justice and a desire to create a positive impact.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Kapelus felt compelled to do more and give back to his community. He started volunteering at the West Side Campaign Against Hunger, a food pantry in New York City. Initially, his role was limited to helping with moving boxes and packing bags. However, as he dedicated more time and effort to the cause, his role expanded, allowing him to interact with people who had been food insecure for many years and those who were struggling due to the economic collapse brought about by the pandemic.

After transferring to the University of Vermont, Kapelus continued his volunteer work by joining an organization called Feeding Chittenden, which focuses on tackling food insecurity in Chittenden County. Kapelus found this experience to be an interesting contrast to his volunteer work in New York. However, it was his job at a homeless shelter in Burlington that had the most profound impact on him. As a paid employee doing social work, Kapelus had greater responsibility and a deeper connection with the homeless population, providing him with a more nuanced perspective on the social issues he had been studying.

Despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Kapelus believes that positive changes have been made in addressing homelessness and hunger in Vermont. While the economy has improved, these issues continue to persist, albeit at a slower rate. Kapelus remains hopeful that the lessons learned during the pandemic will lead to further progress in social services, rather than a return to the status quo.

Moving Beyond the Status Quo: Addressing Homelessness and Hunger

When asked about specific steps that can be taken to solve poverty, homelessness, and hunger, Kapelus acknowledges that a comprehensive solution would require significant shifts in the government, economy, and society as a whole. However, he highlights the importance of initiatives such as using old hotels and motels as homeless shelters, providing a platform for individuals in the homeless community to begin their path toward independence. Additionally, he emphasizes the need for continued government support for beneficial food programs, such as the Farmers to Families Food Program, which helped address food insecurity during the pandemic.

Reflecting on the impact of COVID-19 on social services, Kapelus recognizes that the pandemic has reshaped the way society views and approaches homelessness and social services. The shift towards utilizing hotels as temporary housing for the homeless community has proven to be effective in providing stability and privacy, allowing individuals to access additional services and take steps towards independence. Kapelus’s current work at a once-failing motel-turned dignified homeless shelter exemplifies this shift in approach.

Griffin Kapelus’s commitment to helping others and his dedication to social justice have had a profound impact not only on the lives of those he has assisted but also on his own personal growth. His experiences as a volunteer and a paid employee in social work have given him invaluable insights and a deeper understanding of the complex issues surrounding poverty, homelessness, and hunger. Kapelus remains focused on continuing his volunteer work and his job at the homeless shelter while exploring how he can expand his academic interests in real-world scenarios. By combining his passion for social justice and his academic pursuits, Kapelus aims to contribute to finding sustainable solutions to these pressing social issues.

Supporting Fellow Students: The Role of a Peer Mentor

In addition to his volunteer work and job, Kapelus has also made a significant impact on the lives of his fellow students. As a peer mentor at the University of Vermont, he had the opportunity to support and guide new students in their transition to college life. One particular student, whom Kapelus refers to as Alex, stands out as a testament to his positive influence.

Initially, Alex seemed reserved and uncertain, struggling to adapt to the new environment. Kapelus’s role as a peer mentor was to provide information and resources that could aid in a smoother transition. However, it wasn’t until Kapelus discovered Alex’s love for music that their relationship truly blossomed. Through their shared interest in music, they developed a bond that allowed Alex to open up and express his concerns and questions.

Kapelus took on the role of a knowledgeable guide, directing Alex to the appropriate resources and services on campus. From helping him find writing tutoring to connecting him with a counselor to address his living situation, Kapelus supported Alex in navigating the challenges he faced. Beyond offering practical solutions, Kapelus also provided emotional support, acknowledging the difficulties of making new friends and encouraging Alex to step out of his comfort zone.

As time went on, Kapelus witnessed a remarkable transformation in Alex. With the guidance and support he received, Alex began to gain confidence and thrive in his college life. He found joy in his classes, built strong connections with his roommate, pursued his passion for music, and explored new hobbies. The once-quiet meetings turned into brief updates as Alex became more self-sufficient and embraced his newfound independence.

While Kapelus humbly acknowledges that he was just one part of Alex’s support system, he takes pride in being able to contribute to his successful transition into college life. As a fellow student, Kapelus provided a safe space for Alex to voice his concerns and offered guidance when needed. Through his role as a peer mentor, Griffin Kapelus exemplified the power of empathy, understanding, and practical assistance in making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Griffin Kapelus’s commitment to helping others, both in his volunteer work and as a peer mentor, showcases his unwavering dedication to creating a better and more equitable society. By combining his academic pursuits with real-world experiences, Griffin Kapelus strives to bridge the gap between theory and practice, seeking comprehensive solutions to poverty, homelessness, and hunger. His story serves as an inspiration, reminding us all of the transformative power we hold when we lend a helping hand to those in need.

Wealth Tribune

Griffin Kapelus: Making a Difference and Transforming Lives