This volunteer highlight spotlights Simon Zhong, a student at St. John’s School in Houston, who has turned a personal passion for swimming into a mission of safety, education, and community.
Simon serves as captain of St. John’s Varsity Swimming team, where his leadership in the water is well known. But three years ago, Simon’s commitment to swimming took on a new purpose. After learning about the number of drowning deaths that occur each year in apartment complex swimming pools, he felt he couldn’t stand by. He began teaching water safety at several Urban Outreach locations, determined to make sure kids had the knowledge and skills to stay safe around water.
The more time Simon spent with the kids at these communities, the more he recognized how much more they had to offer beyond swim lessons. That realization led him to start volunteering at Belara Apartments, Boca Springs Apartments, and Pagewood Place Apartments—and eventually build something of his own. Simon created a program that goes beyond water safety, enlisting his friends to volunteer their own talents in music, STEM, and art. He believes every child deserves the chance to explore and grow in areas they’re passionate about, regardless of their circumstances, and that a few caring mentors can make all the difference.
Simon’s impact continued most recently on Friday, July 31, 2026, when he helped organize and donate backpacks to students preparing for the new school year — one more way of showing up for the kids he’s come to know.
In recognition of his dedication, the Executive Director of Urban Outreach presented Simon with a certificate honoring his years of service and the program he built from the ground up.
From water safety lessons to music, STEM, and art enrichment, Simon Zhong’s story is a reminder of what one person’s initiative — and a group of committed friends — can do for a community. We’re proud to highlight his work and grateful for everything he continues to give.