Abdul Panjwani’s has always been a strong believer in serving communities around him, right from the country of his birth – Pakistan. When he arrived in the US, that same desire inspired him to register as a Red Cross Volunteer in 2013. He has not looked back since. Drawn to the organization’s inclusive culture that “welcomes everyone with no exception,” he found a perfect match that neatly aligned with his values to serve those who need him every chance he gets.

Although a DAT (Disaster Action Team) member, Panjwani seeks every opportunity to serve, whether in a shelter or sharing Indian desserts that he loves to make, it is his way of extending the hand of kindness. “Helping people” is what drives him, and watching others being filled with joy as a result fulfills him in a way that he can’t describe.

Volunteering has exposed Panjwani to fascinating individuals from diverse backgrounds and unique life stories and experiences, and he is better off for it as his communication skills have been enhanced, making his interaction with the passengers he transports through Uber app “fun.”

Senior citizens are close to Panjwani’s heart. He goes grocery shopping for those who cannot make it to the store because of age once a month as an act of kindness. At the Red Cross he’s met kindred spirits that have contributed to making him a more grounded and fulfilled individual who is excited to make a difference in the lives of others.

Panjwani recalls a memorable moment in his life when he made a prosthetic eye for a lady who had lost an eye. It seemed modest by his admission but made a world of a difference in her healing from that traumatic ordeal.

“There is nothing as rewarding as witnessing the joy that comes from having made a difference,” said Panjwani.

In the lives of complete strangers, and family alike, Panjwani has come to understand that all humans need an act of kindness expressed through service and the Red Cross is a perfect platform for that. His mantra is “Do whatever you do with all your heart and urgency because you may never get another opportunity to make someone’s day.”

He concludes by say, “You never know when you will need someone’s help along the journey of life,” and encourages those who wish to enroll as volunteers that it is where true purpose is found. 

Story By: Richard Arina