March Volunteer of the Month: Lexi Yuen

Congratulations to Issaquah High School senior and Central Park resident Lexi Yuen for being recognized as our March Volunteer of the Month!

As the co-president on the Highlands Youth (HY) Advisory Board, Lexi has stepped up in a big way to lead the group in planning youth events for the community, such as the upcoming Middle School Flashlight Egg Hunt. She goes above and beyond to create an inclusive and supportive environment on the board, encouraging open discussions and ensuring all members have a voice. Thanks for all you do for our community, Lexi!

Lexi had the following to say about her time volunteering and living in Issaquah Highlands:

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What brought your family to Issaquah Highlands?

I’ve lived in Issaquah Highlands my entire life, and my parents moved to the community rather early in its development. They were drawn to the community by how much there was to do in just one neighborhood. With trails, parks, and multiple stores just a walk down the hill planned for the area, who could say no to a neighborhood that promised so much more than just housing?

What do you like best about living in Issaquah Highlands?

Like my mother, I enjoy all that Issaquah Highlands has to offer. I’ve taken many walks with my family and friends, and there’s always something interesting to discover while exploring. Some of my favorite finds include the bridge on the trail by the retention pond—which my family calls the Tennis Pond—the telescope and the hidden geocache near the water. I love how big Issaquah Highlands feels, and it makes me eager to discover what else lies in the corners I haven’t seen yet.

Could you tell us about your family?

I live with my father, mother, older brother (Colin, who graduated two years ago), and younger brother (Jeric, who is also a member of the HY Board)! This might be a little (very) sappy, but I hold my family very dearly to my heart. We share all of life’s experiences with each other. From the good to the bad, we support each other, and I know that each of them has my back. We might goof off a lot (and it’s a lot) but there’s no other group of people I’d trust more than them.

How did you become involved as a volunteer in Issaquah Highlands?

When I was in sixth grade, I had a sleepover birthday party with a few of my friends. But before that, we attended the Middle School Flashlight Egg Hunt. That night was one of the highlights of my middle school years, and I’ve been grateful ever since for the space that allowed me to create such fond memories. When I found out my older brother had joined the HY Board, the organization that held the event, I decided that I wanted to join and provide that same experience for others. In ninth grade, I was invited to join as a board member!

Tell us about your experience as a volunteer and on the HY Board.  

I’ve grown a lot and learned a lot in my time on the HY Board, and I’m glad I was able to participate in a space that was so welcoming to this progress. When I first joined, I was hesitant to step up. But now, two years later, I am the co-president of the HY Board! Everyone I’ve met on the board has been very lovely, and I thank them for letting me try and fail and try again, all with plenty of laughs. Thanks to the HY Board, I feel much more prepared for the future and confident in myself.

What advice would you give to other teens and/or adults about volunteering in Issaquah Highlands?  

Have fun! Volunteering is about giving back and connection, and you should remember that. There’s no performance review, no graded rubric—just you, your fellow volunteers, and your drive to make a difference. Let your drive to help others shine through and don’t forget to smile!

Anything you’d like to add?

Thank you so much for this opportunity! I’ll keep doing my best for the HY Board and the community!