Member Spotlight: Vyas
When Vyas joined Civitan, he was searching for something many people long for but rarely find—a way to serve his community meaningfully and connect with people who share that same passion for giving back. What he discovered within Civitan was exactly the kind of supportive, service-driven group he had hoped for.
“My goal is to engage in work that makes a tangible difference in my community, while also connecting with like-minded individuals to build new friendships and become part of a welcoming, supportive group.”
Planting Roots
Of all the service projects he's joined, one event stands above the rest: Tree Planting with Trees for the Triangle in Cary, NC. For Vyas, this day captured everything he loves about community volunteering.
It was early April—a warm, sunny spring morning perfect for digging into the earth. He spent the day planting saplings alongside other volunteers, laughing, chatting, and working as a team to make Cary a greener, healthier place.
“Knowing those saplings will outlive us all, supporting wildlife and cooling the neighborhood, fills me with quiet, lasting pride.”
It wasn’t just an event; it was a legacy. He looks forward to visiting those trees years from now, knowing he played a role in shaping the landscape for future generations.
Proud Moments at the Raleigh Food Bank
Another standout experience for Vyas has been volunteering with the Raleigh Food Bank—twice, in fact. These events resonated with him deeply.
He spent hours packing boxes filled with staples like canned goods, rice, pasta, and fresh produce, each one destined for local families relying on food assistance. What struck him most wasn’t just the need—it was the people.
“I worked alongside an incredible mix of people: high school students full of energy, adults in their 30s and 40s, and volunteers over 50* who’d been showing up for years. It hit me hard—there’s no age limit to making a difference; everyone just rolled up their sleeves and got to work. Chatting with them between stations was an eye-opener—stories of why they give back.”
Going Over the Edge
When asked about his favorite Civitan memory, Vyas doesn’t hesitate: rappelling down the Pendo building in downtown Raleigh for the Special Olympics Over the Edge fundraiser.
The experience was unlike anything he expected—five exhilarating minutes of adrenaline, wind rushing past him, and cheers echoing from the crowd below.
“It was thrilling, fun, and just a bit too short (only 5 minutes—wish it was taller!”
But beyond the rush, what stayed with him most was the camaraderie. The joking, the encouragement, the team energy—it all made him feel instantly at home. And knowing every dollar went toward supporting athletes of Special Olympics North Carolina made the moment even more meaningful.
He’s already counting down the days until he can go “over the edge” again next year.
Why We’re Grateful for Vyas
Whether he’s planting or stepping off a skyscraper for a cause he believes in, Vyas brings enthusiasm, kindness, and purpose to everything he does. His desire to give back and connect with community makes him a standout member of Civitan—and a reminder of why our work matters.
We’re so glad to have him in the Triangle Young Professionals Civitan Club and can’t wait to see what adventures he takes on next.