About Us
Heroes Around Me, an initiative of Elyvate for Future
Heroes Around Me (HAM) is an initiative of Elyvate for Future, a non-profit organization. Our mission is to celebrate and document the stories of everyday heroes around the world, fostering a global community of inspiration and connection. Through interviews, writing, and multimedia projects, we empower students to recognize and honor individuals who make a positive impact in their communities. By sharing these stories, we aim to bridge cultural gaps, promote empathy, and inspire the next generation of leaders to value and emulate the heroic acts of those around them.
Volunteer Hours and PVSA Eligibility
At Heroes Around Me (HAM), we are proud to support volunteers in their journey toward earning the President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA). Established in 2003 by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation, the PVSA honors individuals whose service positively impacts communities across the nation and inspires others to take action. This prestigious program, led by AmeriCorps and managed in partnership with Points of Light, empowers Certifying Organizations to recognize their most exceptional volunteers.
Through our activities, HAM provides participants with Volunteer Hour Certifications, documenting the time you dedicate to celebrating everyday heroes in your community. These certifications can be used to support your application for the PVSA, helping you gain national recognition for your service.
By volunteering with HAM, you not only contribute to meaningful storytelling but also build a legacy of service that could earn you recognition as a PVSA honoree—one of the highest acknowledgments for volunteerism in the United States.
Meet The Team
Zoe Zhang
Executive Director
James Tian
Operations Director​
