Aakarsh Shetty

From Shelf to Smiles: Aakarsh's Journey to Ignite Literacy

Aakarsh Shetty, a bright freshman from Dublin High School, isn't your typical teenager. While many his age spend their free time glued to screens, Aakarsh has embarked on a mission to fight the good fight – one book at a time. His journey began amidst the dusty shelves of his own home, where a spark of inspiration ignited.

While he was in India for three years, Aakarsh witnessed firsthand the stark reality of poverty and its impact on education. Children, yearning for knowledge, were denied the chance to learn simply because their parents couldn't afford it. News and documentaries fueled a fire within him, a burning desire to make a difference, no matter how small.

Middle school became a turning point. Gazing at his own bookshelf, Aakarsh saw not just stories, but potential. These books, once devoured, could find new life in the hands of those who desperately needed them. The seed of a book drive was sown, a seed that would blossom into a vibrant, community-driven initiative.

Maryam Foundation became his haven, the fertile ground where his passion could take root. Learning about their mission to build libraries and provide books in underprivileged communities, Aakarsh knew he had found his place. He joined the foundation, not just as a volunteer, but as a torchbearer, determined to illuminate the path to knowledge for children across continents.

His spirit is infectious. Aakarsh didn't just collect books; he ignited a movement. He organized drives, traversing neighborhoods in Dublin, San Ramon, and Pleasanton, his infectious enthusiasm drawing in both young and old. Over 1,200 books later, shelves that once held dust now overflow with stories waiting to be shared.

But Aakarsh's dedication doesn't stop at collecting. He sorts, boxes, and loads, his hands tirelessly working to ensure each book reaches its destination. In his eyes, every box isn't just cardboard; it's a portal to a brighter future, a chance for a child to dream, to learn, to grow.

Aakarsh's story is a testament to the power of a single spark. It's a reminder that even the smallest act of kindness, fueled by compassion and determination, can ripple outwards, creating a wave of positive change. He is not just a volunteer; he is a catalyst, a young hero whose journey to ignite literacy has just begun.

So, the next time you see a dusty book on your shelf, remember Aakarsh. Remember that within its pages lies the potential to spark a child's imagination, to light a fire of curiosity, to rewrite a future. Donate, volunteer, share your story – let Aakarsh's journey inspire you to become a part of something bigger than yourself. Because in the end, it's not just about books; it's about changing the world, one page at a time.