Julia Taylor’s journey into philanthropy began at the age of 10. Her inspiration stemmed from a personal experience when her aunt was seeking in-patient treatment for substance use disorder. After visiting her aunt, Julia learned more about the challenges her aunt and many others in the world were facing. She discovered that many people struggle with poverty, homelessness, or disabilities, and that available services can only go so far. This realization moved her and she immediately wanted to help those in need, particularly women and children.

Eager to make a difference, Julia created a PowerPoint presentation to share with her friends and family, successfully raising funds to purchase backpacks and school supplies for children in need. Her first donation went to a large organization, but she soon decided to focus her efforts closer to home. Through a family connection to Michelle, the former program manager of Hart House, Julia learned about Hart House’s work supporting women and trans and nonbinary people recovering from substance use disorders. With many of the residents being mothers, Julia knew this was the perfect place for her next donation.

Since then, Julia has organized annual donations to Hart House, filling backpacks with essential items for both residents and their children. Backpacks for adult residents are filled with blankets, hats, gloves, journals, and hygiene necessities. For their children, the backpacks are sorted by age group—some for teens and some for younger children—containing pens, pencils, notebooks, hats, gloves, hygiene items, and toys for smaller kids.

Over the years, Julia has inspired many others to join her efforts, encouraging people to contribute, no matter the amount. As Julia puts it, “Whether it’s $5 or $500, every donation makes a difference. And even if you don’t have money to give, you can always donate your time by volunteering.”

This year, Julia gathered a group of high school and middle school students to help her pack the backpacks. By involving young people in charitable work—an area typically led by adults—she is empowering the next generation to take initiative and actively contribute to their communities.

As Julia prepares to graduate high school and head to college next fall, she reflects on her journey. Although this year marks her final annual donation to Hart House, she is far from finished. With interests in neuroscience and psychology, Julia hopes to continue giving back throughout her college years, and she dreams of formally establishing her charity as a registered nonprofit.

Julia’s story serves as a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to making a positive impact. “When I started, I wasn’t sure if I’d be successful, but I took baby steps,” Julia says. “I hope my story encourages others to take that first step and find their own way to give back.”