Collaborating alongside other Diamond Bar High School students in his non-profit organization, the Sunshine Hearts Foundation, junior Justin Tsuei travels to retirement homes aiming to brighten others’ lives.
Tsuei started the organization in Aug. 2023 to spread awareness for senior isolation in retirement homes, as well as helping elders re-experience the prime of their lives.
At Sunshine Heart’s activities and meetings, Tsuei along with other volunteers, exchange life stories and build connections with senior citizens at the Brookdale Brea, Regency Grand West Covina and Serento Rosas retirement homes. Activities include giving senior citizens manicures, giving lessons about modern technology and hosting fun art activities and playing board games together, just to name a few.
“My grandfather passed away unexpectedly this past summer, and he never talked about his life. I never had the chance to say goodbye,” Tsuei said via Instagram. “By creating this non-profit, I want senior residents to get a chance to share their story with the youth and hear the youths’ stories too.”
The Sunshine Hearts Foundation plans many events to further strengthen bonds with the previous generation. Recently hosting a cookie decorating event in the retirement homes, the organization purchased cookies, icing and other supplies to decorate baked goods with senior citizens, the event ultimately ending as a smashing success.
Tsuei intends to hold another event soon, celebrating the Lunar New Year with elderly residents to introduce them to diverse cultural elements from all over the world. Future events Tsuei has planned include creating traditional Chinese lanterns and wrapping dumplings.
“My non-profit means a lot to me, as it’s a way to honor my grandpa’s memory,” Tsuei said. “I want to acknowledge him and how much of an impact he had on my life.”
The Sunshine Hearts Foundation has steadily been expanding beyond its original local influence, amassing many new volunteers and followers on social media platforms to take part in their cause. Though the foundation started as a local project, Tsuei holds the ambition for the foundation to assist retired people from all over the state.
“I’m proudest of how far we’ve come and the connections we’ve built. We have connections with three retirement homes in the area,” Tsuei said. “Seeing the joy on seniors’ faces when we go to retirement homes is priceless, and their gratitude for our volunteers is what makes it worthwhile.”
