Positively Colorado: Young volunteer doing good

BROOMFIELD, Colo. — There’s a quote attributed to Ben Franklin: “Life’s tragedy is that we get too old too soon, and wise too late.”

Elaina Johnson of Broomfield doesn’t have that problem.

She is wise way beyond her 11 years. Elaina was recently on the cover of Time Kid’s Magazine. She was recognized by Hormel Foods as one of its “10 Under 20 Food Heroes”. She’s been the subject of stories in newspapers and on TV.

But most importantly, she’s been busy helping others who are less fortunate.

“Do whatever you can to help out and do it at any age”, Elaina says. “Don’t be afraid to do something.”

These days Elaina is working with the non-profit Conscience Alliance to help distribute food to people who need it – including Venezuelan migrants who recently moved to Denver.

This all started when Elaina was 6 and decided to do a food drive at her school.

“I felt bad for people who didn’t have a home, and I didn’t understand why I got a home, but they didn’t.”

Her grandmother says Elaina just naturally has a heart of gold.

“She’d seen on the news about the Venezuelans and she’s like I’ve got to do something to help these people.”

Elaina sees the migrant situation different than some other people.

“They get a lot of hate, and most people don’t want them working for them”, she says. “So, I want them out so they can get a job or do things to just be normal.”

That’s why she’s delivered food, water, and hygiene products to them. Elaina even started her own non-profit called “Spark the Good”, to expand her efforts.

If you’re interested in helping her, get more information by using the QR code below.