Strength in Small Hands: How Lauren Barg Supports Pediatric Cancer Patients

Lauren Barg – California

Nomination by Yvette Ruccolo | Photography by Nicole Ruccolo

Issue 89 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Nomination: Lauren Barg is a selfless leader who inspires others through her unwavering dedication to helping children in need. She founded Strength in Small Hands, an organization supporting pediatric cancer patients through activity boxes. Her commitment to community service extends beyond her organization, as she actively gives back to her town and uplifts those around her. Lauren’s drive, kindness, and determination make her a true force of nature, showing that even one person can make a lasting impact. Her story is a testament to the power of generosity and leadership.

Strength in Small Hands: How Lauren Barg Supports Pediatric Cancer Patients

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?

My character is driven by community and service. For years, I have strived to create transformative and purposeful change in our world. I am an active member in my community, dedicated to fostering connections, inclusivity, and giving back. But before anything else, I’m a best friend. A sister. A daughter. An advocate. I’m the cousin who leads with love, kindness, and most importantly… ice cream. I’m the friend who is incredibly loyal, the sister who protects, and the daughter who brings laughter to every conversation. Everything I do is simply guided by my passion for helping others shine.

What else would you like to talk about?

Beyond my leadership roles, I am driven by my belief in the power of small actions. Whether it’s organizing community events, supporting younger students, or simply showing up for those who need support, I know that change starts with kindness. As mentioned in the original nomination, my organization, Strength in Small Hands, resembles this belief to the tee—showing anyone can make a difference, and everyone should be supported. Truly greatest fulfillment comes from uplifting others and creating a world where everyone feels empowered.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?

Teenagers have a power that is too often overlooked—we are not just capable of change, we are driving it. We are often told to wait our turn, and that we are too young to understand the world yet. But, we see the world not just as it is, but as it could be. Change doesn’t come from waiting—it comes from acting, from caring, from believing that even the smallest voice can make a difference. We are the future. But, we’re also now. When teens come together, there’s nothing we can’t do.

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?

This isn’t a fancy story—just a meaningful one. My aunt, who I’m really close with, took this picture, and that makes it special. She’s someone who has always been there for me, supporting and inspiring me in ways big and small. So when I needed an image, I immediately thought of her.

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?

As funny as it sounds, my mom nominated me—I didn’t even know at first! She’s always been the one to push me toward new opportunities, and this was no different. She has always believed in me, made sure I didn’t miss out on something meaningful, and kept looking out for me like she always does. I wouldn’t be who I am without her.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?

I want to be part of Inspiring Teens Magazine to inspire other teens to create change and show that sometimes, you don’t realize how much the world needed your project or idea until you bring it to life. Too often, we doubt ourselves or wait for the ‘correct time,’ but really, our voices and actions matter now. If sharing my story encourages even one teen to take that first step, then this opportunity will have been worth it.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?

If I win, I would use the money for my organization, Strength In Small Hands, and continue to give back.

What inspired you to start Strength in Small Hands?

Watching my grandfather battle cancer was a turning point for me. His strength, persistence, and unwavering optimism in the face of something so daunting made me realize how powerful resilience can be. I knew I couldn’t just stand by—I had to do something. That’s when the idea for Strength in Small Hands began. I wanted to create a space where small acts of kindness could add up to something bigger, proving that even as teenagers, we have the ability to make a real impact.

What exactly does your organization do?

At Strength in Small Hands, we believe that even the smallest gestures can create the biggest impact. We are providing activity boxes to pediatric cancer patients, bringing joy and comfort during their treatments. Our mission is to empower individuals and families affected by cancer through community support, awareness, and meaningful action. Together, hand in hand, we’re building a future of hope, strength, and resilience.

What do you love most about it?

What I love most about Strength in Small Hands is knowing that I’m making a true difference to such an important cause. Offering comfort during a tough time and inspiring others to take action is incredibly fulfilling, not to mention how it acts as a reminder that even small acts of kindness can create lasting change.

How would you describe your leadership style?

I would describe my leadership style as a combination of kindness and determination. I lead with empathy, making sure that those around me feel supported, while also maintaining a strong work ethic and constant persistence. I’m not afraid to tackle challenges head-on, and I encourage others to do the same, thus creating an uplifting and solution-oriented environment.

What is your strongest leadership quality?

My strongest leadership quality is being futuristic. I’m always envisioning what’s possible, and mapping out how to turn my ideas into reality. I often focus on the bigger picture and try not to let little “bumps in the road” slow me down. My ability to see beyond the present and envision future possibilities allow me to easily dream big and take action.

Describe a day you were especially active in your community.

One especially active day in my community involvement was at a leadership conference hosted by my town’s Youth Commission. I helped to facilitate the event, and we invited local teen innovators and entrepreneurs to present their small businesses, network with adults, and connect with professionals across numerous industries. It was an inspiring space where young leaders could dream big, share their experiences, and build meaningful connections.

What is your friend group like and what do you like to do together?

My friend group is so fun—loud, adventurous, and always up for something new. Whether it’s spending the day at an amusement park, trying out different coffee shops, or just going to Target to grab ingredients for a candy salad, we have the best time. You will catch us laughing over the most random things, and just enjoying whatever adventure we decide to take on that day–very spontaneous!

What is a memory with them you'll never forget?

One memory with my friend group that I’ll never forget is this one night where we decided to bake fresh cookies, and ended up making more than 100. After baking, we drove around to our friends’ and classmates’ houses and surprised them with plates of warm cookies to enjoy. It was so much fun seeing their reactions and just spreading a little joy in such a simple, sweet way.

What is your family like? Where do you fit in and where do you stand out?

I have a large Italian family and we’re definitely so fun and very loud—full of energy, love, and the best food! While I’m not the best cook (I don’t exactly carry those genes!) I definitely fit in with the laughter and excitement. With so many cousins, it’s never a dull moment, and we all really care for each other. The bond we share is something that makes our family extra special.

What is a family tradition you hope never ends?

A family tradition that I absolutely love and cherish is one that we have around the holidays. Every year, we cut down a Christmas tree on my birthday, which is November 28th—right in time for the holidays! It’s so much fun because we get to pick out the perfect tree, then come home and decorate it while enjoying dinner and dessert together.

What is your ideal dream job if it were offered to you today?

If I could have my ideal dream job today, I would want to own a marketing agency in London for a few years. I think it would be amazing to experience a new culture while being my own boss. Not only would I get to help other companies grow and achieve great results, but being able to explore and live outside of the country for a little while would be amazing. It’s the perfect mix of a wonderful career and new adventure.

Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you to get where you are today?

My uncle, Michael, has been a role model my whole life. He’s been my cheerleader in the best times, my source of wisdom in the challenging moments, my guidance when I needed direction, and my support in every way. His constant encouragement is something I am beyond grateful for, and he has wonderfully shaped me into the person I am today.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?

I am incredibly grateful to be featured in Inspiring Teens Magazine! Thank you so much for this opportunity—I truly appreciate it and am beyond honored.

If you had nothing to do and all day to do it, where would we find you?

You would find me trying new restaurants and coffee shops with my friends / family, trying way too many things off the menu! Or, I would be taking my five year old cousin, Frankie, on an ice cream date, pushing him to try other flavors rather than his usual order of chocolate.

What is up next for you that you are super excited about?

I am getting ready for college applications, so that will be the next big step! But I will also be continuing my community service work with Strength In Small Hands and other sectors of my life.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?

Take the risk. If you spend too much time waiting for the right time, you’ll realize it just passed.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?

Yes, I want to own my own marketing agency, hopefully retire my parents, and build a meaningful career. But more than anything, in five years, I want to be there for the people I love. I want to be a role model for my sister, the laughter for my cousin, the smile for my parents, and the helping hand for my friends. I want to be the person they turn to. The one who brings out the sun on a rainy day.

Look for Lauren in issue 89 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!