“Home” is one of the warmest and most nostalgic words in the world. It is more than just a geographic location—it is a real and comforting haven. In this era full of uncertainties, a home becomes even more precious, a dreamlike sanctuary that countless people long for. For those who are displaced, returning home is not merely about reaching a physical destination, but about finding a sense of spiritual belonging. The “Returning Home” charity project by ICSO·US is a reflection of this warm and powerful force. The selfless actions of volunteers not only help rebuild shelters but also deliver care and hope to every homeless person, injecting renewed strength into their hearts and lighting the path ahead.
Outstanding ICSO Volunteer
Profile: Yan Huang
University College London, Department of Biomedical Sciences
Affiliated Organization: ICSO·US (US Branch)
While studying in the United States, Yan Huang witnessed the outbreak of COVID-19 and how it forced many people into hardship, some even becoming homeless due to job loss. Seeing these individuals struggle helplessly in the cold stirred a powerful urge in her to help. Together with her classmates, she decided to take action. On the recommendation of a mentor, she learned about the “Returning Home” charity project jointly launched by ICSO·US and Christian churches, and she chose to join the ICSO international volunteer support organization to bring warmth and hope to those in urgent need.
Once involved in the project, Yan quickly understood the urgent material and financial needs of the homeless through local community centers and shelters. Taking swift initiative, she helped develop a detailed fundraising plan. She proactively reached out to local NGOs and churches, requesting their support in working together to address the crisis faced by the homeless. She also organized a fundraising event, personally designing posters and flyers which were distributed throughout the community and on campus to raise awareness about the cause and its significance. Using social media, she created a dedicated fundraising page that listed the needed supplies and donation methods in detail. To encourage greater participation, she regularly posted updates on fundraising progress, showing collected supplies and donations, and shared real feedback from those who had been helped.
In addition to planning, Yan also volunteered in logistics, driving her own car back and forth between donation sites and shelters. When organizing supplies, she patiently sorted and packaged items based on actual needs to ensure that every donation could be effectively used. Every time supplies were delivered to shelters, she assisted staff in counting, distributing, and ensuring each donation reached those who needed it most. At times, she even stayed late into the night to talk with individuals in distress, offering comfort and guidance to help them through their struggles.
In this campaign to aid the homeless, she demonstrated fearless compassion and unwavering dedication. Accumulating over 500 hours of volunteer service, she supported countless shelters and communities, offering vital aid to thousands of people. Through her efforts, the homeless not only felt the warmth and care of society but also regained dignity and hope.
When asked why she devotes herself so wholeheartedly to volunteering, she shared:
“I’ve experienced helplessness and hit rock bottom myself. Now, I want to use my strength to bring warmth and hope to others. These experiences have made me reflect on the meaning of ‘home.’ It’s not just a location, but a place where the heart finds peace. After overcoming countless challenges and hard times, I’ve come to realize that love and support can transcend borders and backgrounds, becoming a powerful force that lights the way for those yearning for hope in the darkness. I will continue to carry this belief forward, bringing warmth and hope to more people in need. Because not only did this change their lives—it deeply changed me. It made me more determined in my belief that no matter how hard the road ahead may be, we can always find the strength to move forward in each other’s support.”