Nikki Williams

Seneca Valley junior Nikki Williams felt obligated to give back what she was given in the midst of a pandemic that left many unemployed.

When Williams’ employer closed its doors last spring due to COVID-19, she continued to receive a paycheck. Receiving this “unearned” money, however, did not sit right with Williams.

“I don’t deserve this, I didn’t earn it,” she said.

That sentiment was ultimately what drove her to make the decision to donate the money to several local food banks and nonprofit organizations, including the Seneca Valley Foundation.

“Even though I am young with only a part-time job and probably should be saving for college, a car and an apartment for when I am older, I chose to give most of that money away to those who need it more than me,” Williams said.

Williams enjoyed grocery shopping with her mother to pick food items they later donated to area nonprofits. Her parents also helped her decide which additional nonprofits would benefit the most from a monetary donation.

The SVF was thrilled to be named a recipient of her donated funds, according to Annie Mersing, director of development.

“These challenging and volatile times have dramatically changed how the foundation functions and our focus,” she said. “We depend so much on the generosity of those that can give right now to help those who cannot. Having a student step up to the plate to do so is both encouraging and inspiring.”