While interviewing  American Red Cross  volunteer colleague Xinyao (Xin) Lin, I was reminded of the old adage, “If you want something done, ask a busy person.”

Xin ( pronounced Zhen) is an 18-year-old youth volunteer who recently won the Financial Development department's 2024 Outstanding Volunteer Award.  The award was presented at the Celebration of Volunteers event on March 8, 2025.

I was delighted to  meet up with Xin and to find out how she accomplishes so much.

Xin Connects with the Red Cross

Her story began about 18 months ago by seeking out a volunteer opportunity with the Red Cross.  Because her high school in South Philadelphia, Academy at Palumbo, does not have a Red Cross Club, Xin took the initiative to seek out volunteering.  She came at the right time to help with the Red Cross’ headquarters move from 2221 Chestnut St. to the newly renovated 700 Spring Garden Campus.  With 50 years of archival  records, the Financial Development team needed help with  cleaning out, packing, and organizing boxes of records. Her supervisor reported that Xin gracefully took up the challenges. She exceeded  the move preparation team’s expectations and quickly became an essential part of the team.  Since Xin is a high school senior, she volunteered her time on Saturdays to support the project. 

Personal Interests and Family Life

Xin was born in China and has lived in the U.S. for the last 10 years. She lives in South Philadelphia with her mother, older sister, middle school-aged brother, and pet poodle, Laker.  Currently in her senior year,  Xin has completed the college selection process and will be attending Drexel University as an Accounting major in fall 2025. She is also a talented pianist and violinist. Xin loves to run with teachers and friends.  Over the last several years she has completed both half-marathons and a whole marathon during the annual Broad Street Run. Her favorite family activities include picnics and outings with her own family as well as other families in the Chinese-American community.

Volunteering Philosophy and Inspiration

When asked about why she volunteers, Xin explained, ”I like to help people, meet people, and it feels good.” Her older sister has a bachelor’s degree in Nursing and is pursuing graduate studies in the field.  As an older sister, she encourages Xin in her volunteering.  Upon her completion of studies at Drexel, Xin hopes to visit China after college.

I was happy to be in the audience cheering for Xin when she received her Outstanding Volunteer Award.  Even with her busy schedule, she remains a generous contributor to the American Red Cross mission. Well done, Xin!

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- Written by Maureen Zug