Member Spotlight: Schuyler

Schuyler joined Triangle YP Civitan in January 2020, full of excitement about volunteer opportunities and new friendships. Just a few events in, the world unexpectedly shut down. While many activities paused, Schuyler’s enthusiasm for the club did not.

Even during virtual meetups that summer, he stayed involved. When the opportunity came in 2021 to help bring the club back to life, Schuyler stepped up in a big way—serving as Treasurer. He held the role for four years, helping guide the organization through growth and impact until recently passing the torch to another member.

Why Civitan?

As a young professional, Schuyler believes in staying grounded and remembering how fortunate he is.

There are many people in our community facing challenges, and he feels a strong responsibility to give back.

Civitan offered exactly what he was looking for: a way to volunteer consistently without having to commit to just one organization. The variety of monthly service opportunities made it easy to get involved, explore different causes, and discover where he could make the greatest impact.

Beyond service, he values the social events, leadership development, and the opportunity to connect with other young professionals across the Triangle.

Friendships, he’s found, form more naturally—and last longer—when they’re built on shared positive experiences like volunteering.

Finding Joy in the Small (But Mighty) Things

While some might gravitate toward big, high-energy events, Schuyler’s favorite volunteer opportunities are actually litter pickups.

They may not be glamorous, but the impact is immediate and visible. The transformation from before to after is tangible and deeply satisfying. Living in an up-and-coming Raleigh neighborhood that often needs a helping hand makes the work feel even more personal.

Sometimes the most meaningful service is the simplest.

Facing Fears: Over the Edge

One of Schuyler’s most unforgettable memories with Civitan came in 2024 when he went Over the Edge—rappelling 250 feet down the Pendo Building in downtown Raleigh to support Special Olympics North Carolina.

Each year, Civitan sends one member “Over the Edge” for every $1,000 raised for Special Olympics, meaning several members typically participate. After watching others take the plunge for a few years, Schuyler decided it was his turn—even though he admits he’s a little afraid of heights.

Pushing off the ledge and trusting the ropes was the hardest part.
Once he did, though, the fear gave way to exhilaration.

What started as a terrifying moment became one of his proudest accomplishments.

Community in Action: Hurricane Helene Relief

Another defining moment came in September 2024 during the Hurricane Helene relief efforts. Schuyler remembers the overwhelming sense of unity as the club came together to send truckloads of supplies to neighbors in Western North Carolina.

Being part of something so large and impactful reminded him just how powerful a motivated community can be.

Cornament: A Club Tradition

While Civitan volunteers with many community partners throughout the year, Cornament is entirely their own—and it’s the event Schuyler is especially proud of.

The annual cornhole tournament and silent auction raise funds for Special Olympics of North Carolina. It’s complex to organize, filled with moving parts, and powered completely by club members.

As Treasurer, Schuyler had the privilege of delivering a check for several thousand dollars to SONC after the event.

Seeing the gratitude from the staff firsthand reinforced the tangible difference the club makes.

And while he jokes that he’s never made it past the third round of the tournament, there’s always next year.

Why We’re Grateful for Schuyler

From navigating a global shutdown to helping lead the club through four years as Treasurer, Schuyler’s steady leadership, courage, and heart for service have made a lasting mark on Triangle YP Civitan.

Whether he’s picking up litter, stepping off a skyscraper, helping with Cornament, or building friendships through shared service, Schuyler embodies what Civitan is all about: community, impact, and showing up for one another.

We’re so grateful for everything he’s done—and continues to do—for the club and the Triangle community.