Giovanni’s journey in giving back began at just 10 years old, with a simple but powerful act: handing out lemonade to members of the unhoused community. That small gesture sparked a bigger idea. Inspired to do more, he independently filled the first food locker at Swigert Middle School, bringing non-perishable items, breads, and other food donations to students in need. This initiative was entirely his own, outside of any classroom or school program, and his leadership was recognized with a certificate of appreciation from the District 11 Area Superintendent.

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Now 11 years old, Giovanni has grown that idea into a movement through his youth leadership club, CEO Squeeze, inspiring other young people to lead, serve, and create meaningful change in Colorado Springs.

 

Making a Real Difference

Unity in Action Food Drives
Through Unity in Action, CEO Squeeze has raised over $5,000 to support families facing food insecurity. With the support of generous partners, including the Iris and Rodney Gullatte Foundation, the club has ensured hundreds of families receive much-needed food donations.

 

Schools that Benefited and Hosted

• Beneficiaries: Swigert Middle School, Keller Elementary, Carver Elementary, Madison Elementary, (CILA) Colorado International Language Academy and Panorama Middle School. 

• Hosting partners: Freedom Elementary hosted a food drive, providing space and support to help the initiative reach even more families

These efforts demonstrate how Giovanni’s leadership inspires schools and communities to come together, amplifying the impact of his work while keeping the focus on service and compassion.

 

Creative Art Workshops with Licensed Clinical Therapist Afrah Caraballo
Giovanni’s commitment to youth goes beyond providing food. In collaboration with licensed clinical social worker Afrah Caraballo, CEO Squeeze hosts structured, professional art therapy workshops. Children are guided through creative activities that help them process stress, build confidence, and express themselves, leaving participants with skills that last far beyond the workshop.

 

Game Nights at a Retirement Community
Giovanni’s compassion spans generations. He wanted to bring the community together by hosting a game night at a local retirement community, bringing joy, connection, and fun to residents. These events reflect his belief that every member of the community deserves care, attention, and a sense of belonging, while giving CEO Squeeze members an opportunity to practice empathy and leadership.

 

Kindness Initiative
CEO Squeeze also encourages acts of kindness among peers. In the Kindness Initiative, elementary school students wrote thoughtful notes to strangers or children at other schools. These small gestures create a ripple effect, teaching young people that compassion can spread far beyond their immediate circle.

 

Youth Leadership in Action

CEO Squeeze members are at the heart of every project. They organize, promote, and distribute donations, lead workshops, and help run events. Through this participation, they learn responsibility, teamwork, and the power of service. Giovanni’s approach shows that age is never a barrier to leadership, and that young people can create meaningful change when guided by empathy and purpose.

 

Giovanni’s Vision and Leadership

From handing out lemonade at 10, to filling his first food locker, to leading professional workshops, game nights, and kindness initiatives, Giovanni demonstrates that one young person can inspire a community, mobilize resources, and touch lives in meaningful ways. CEO Squeeze is more than a club...it is a platform for youth empowerment, responsibility, and giving back.

 

Looking Ahead

Giovanni and CEO Squeeze are just getting started. With new initiatives, workshops, and food drives on the horizon, there are always ways for young people, families, and community members to get involved. Whether through volunteering, joining a workshop, or supporting a future food drive, CEO Squeeze continues to create opportunities for youth to lead, give back, and make a difference.

Stay connected and check back often to see the exciting events and programs coming up, and discover how you can be part of the journey.