At just 15 years of age, Jah’Niya Treadwell from Ypsilanti, Michigan, has already made a significant impact in her community, dedicating approximately 550 hours to voluntary work. Her experiences have shaped her understanding of the importance of giving back, stemming from her childhood visits to a food pantry with her mother. “I remember being in line, receiving help, and feeling grateful for it,” she shared with PEOPLE. This background inspired her to become someone who assists others in similar situations.
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Since embarking on her volunteer journey in 2023, Treadwell has taken on leadership roles, particularly at a local food pantry where she has been instrumental in food distribution efforts. Alongside her work at the pantry, she also serves as a junior coach with Girls on the Run, an after-school initiative aimed at helping young girls cultivate confidence and essential life skills through a combination of running and interactive activities.
Her remarkable commitment to altruism has not gone unnoticed. Recently, Treadwell was honoured as a 2026 Young Citizen of the Year in Washtenaw County, a recognition that came as a surprise to her. “I honestly didn’t think I would receive it,” she admitted, reflecting on her achievement. “While I know I have contributed, I didn’t believe I had done enough compared to others.”
Jah’Niya’s interest in community service can be traced back to her mother’s involvement in volunteering. The turning point for Treadwell came when a community centre worker informed her about the pressing need for assistance at the local food pantry, prompting her and her brothers to offer their help. “The first time I volunteered, I thought, ‘Wow, this is hard work,'” she recalled. The intensity of the task was underscored by the sight of hundreds of cars queued up, awaiting aid, which left a lasting impression on her.
Over the past three years, Treadwell has evolved from a small helper into a fundamental pillar of the pantry, taking on more responsibilities such as managing operations and training new volunteers. “Initially, I was just assisting, but now I help manage the pantry,” she stated. The work holds special significance for her, as she takes pride in aiding a community that once supported her family.
In addition to her work at the pantry, Treadwell has found joy in mentoring younger girls through the Girls on the Run programme, which caters to girls in grades three to five. The initiative intertwines physical activity with valuable life lessons, culminating in a celebratory 5K run. Having participated in the programme with her sister during her youth, Treadwell now fills the role of a junior coach, facilitating practice sessions and fostering an inclusive environment.
Her experiences mentoring have been particularly meaningful, as she recalls a moment when she helped a shy girl to engage more effectively with the group. By conversing and working closely with her, Treadwell facilitated a sense of belonging, watching the girl gradually come out of her shell. “I aim to be like a big sister to them,” she explained, emphasising her desire to empower young girls.
Alongside her engagement in Girls on the Run, Jah’Niya is also involved with 826 Michigan, mentoring students in a creative writing after-school programme. Her aspirations for the future include extending her volunteer efforts to support additional food pantries once she obtains her driver’s licence, and exploring a mentorship initiative focusing on financial literacy for young women. Ultimately, Treadwell envisions a career in paediatrics, where she hopes to continue her commitment to community welfare.
In championing her cause, Treadwell encourages other young people to embark on their own volunteering journeys. “There’s no specific age to start giving back,” she stated. Her advice is to begin small, whether through tutoring peers, helping at local centres, or inviting friends to volunteer. Her belief is that even modest efforts can lead to substantial change. “I previously underestimated my impact, but I’ve since realised that every little thing makes a big difference,” she concluded.
Jah’Niya Treadwell serves as a testament to how young individuals can create positive shifts in their communities. Her story illustrates that acts of kindness, no matter how small, can ripple out and inspire others to join in the work of making the world a better place.