When 16-year-old Lyla Barkett, a senior at Xavier College Prep High School, first volunteered at Galilee Center, she was struck by a simple but powerful message: $40 feeds a family of four for a week.
That idea stayed with her. “Some families spend more than $40 on indulgences like Starbucks,” Lyla explained. “If I could convince people to redirect even a little of that spending to help others, we could raise enough money to feed a lot of families.”
From that spark, Project Pantry was born in January 2025. Lyla set a bold goal: raise $100,000, enough to feed 50 families for an entire year. At first, the number felt daunting. But she believed it was easier to inspire others by saying, we are feeding 50 families for a year, rather than just quoting a dollar amount.
So far, her instincts have proven right. In just nine months, Lyla has raised nearly $90,000. She is confident she’ll not only reach her goal but surpass it. “Knowing that I’m working toward providing for those in need keeps me motivated,” she said.
Lyla’s efforts are deeply personal. She sees Galilee Center not just as a nonprofit, but as a community. “The Galilee Center is important to me because it’s a place of growth, support, and inspiration. It’s not just an organization; it’s a place people can call their home. Being part of this community has shown me that when we come together with kindness and determination, we can make a real difference.”
Her approach to fundraising has been both personal and creative. She reaches out directly to friends and family by email, text, and phone calls. She also seeks new donors through community events, social media, and word-of-mouth connections. Each step builds momentum and expands the circle of generosity.
For Lyla, the most rewarding part has been knowing she is helping meet one of life’s most basic needs: food. “As Maslow taught us, we can’t become our best selves unless our basic needs are first met,” she reflected. “If I can help people have one of their basic needs met, I can help them rise above their circumstances. Who knows, maybe one of the children I’m helping feed will one day change the world.”
Lyla has already seen how small actions can ripple outward. Her first project for Galilee Center was a teen clothing drive at her school. The response was so overwhelming, they had to rent a U-Haul to deliver the donations. That experience taught her an important lesson: young people can make a meaningful impact.
Her message to other teens is simple but powerful: “Your voice and actions are more powerful than you think. Don’t underestimate your ability to contribute. And don’t be afraid to think big—set an audacious goal. You may be surprised by how much you can achieve.”
At Galilee Center, we are profoundly grateful for Lyla’s dedication and vision. Her leadership is a shining example of compassion in action, and her determination reminds us all that meaningful change can begin with one inspired person. Lyla’s efforts are not only helping provide nourishing food for families, but they are also inspiring our community with hope, kindness, and generosity.
With Project Pantry well on its way, Lyla is proving exactly that.