A Virginia teen started with a dessert fundraiser 2 years ago; his youth team has now rescued...

What started as a simple dessert fundraiser organised by a teenager two years ago has grown into a student-led volunteer project that has rescued more than 300,000 pounds of food for families across Northern Virginia. Dhevesh Mahes started his sweet treats project to raise money for charity, but the effort soon grew after he connected with local community leaders. He saw how much good food was being thrown away while many local families struggled to afford groceries. Mahes then formed the Nourishin Ninjas, a youth team working directly with Anna Sudha Community Kitchens. According to profile information from nonprofit organisation Points of Light, which named Mahes a Daily Point of Light Award honoree, the youth group has kept more than 300,000 pounds of food from ending up in landfills. Instead, the rescued produce, baked goods and prepared meals are given to families across the region who are facing food insecurity.Mobilising youth volunteers and local partnersThe Nourishin Ninjas has grown largely by bringing together student volunteers from schools in the area. Since starting the project, Mahes has recruited and organised more than 150 young people across the region. The volunt...