How to start an outreach project might seem like a big question, but the truth is—it’s simpler than you think. It starts with one thing: the desire to serve.
In a world filled with pride, selfishness, and leadership driven by ego, true leadership feels rare. Too often, leaders focus on elevating themselves instead of uplifting others. When this happens, communities suffer. People are left behind. The ripple effects are felt far beyond what we can see.
That’s exactly why Cumorah Academy exists.
We believe in a different kind of leadership—a leadership rooted in humility, service, and love. Our students don’t just study leadership; they live it. They develop the skills and the mindset to become leaders who bring light to their communities.
And it all starts with being a giver.
Why Leadership Begins With Service
At Cumorah Academy, we teach a simple but powerful principle: True leaders serve first.
If you look closely, the leaders who truly inspire us—the ones who change lives—don’t lead for power or recognition. They lead because they care. Their motivation is rooted in kindness, respect, and love for others. They reflect the pure love of Christ in their actions.
Being a true leader means asking, “How can I contribute?”
It means using your time, talents, and resources to make a real difference in someone else’s life. And anyone can do it—you don’t need money, status, or special connections to get started.
You just need to start.
How to Start an Outreach Project – Step by Step
The students in the Nephi Group at Cumorah Academy recently organized their own outreach project. Their experience is proof that anyone—with the right heart and mindset—can create something meaningful.
Here’s how they did it—and how you can do it too:
1. Discover a Need in Your Community
Look around. Really look. You’ll start to notice that there are more needs than you ever realized. Is there a family struggling to put food on the table? Are there elderly people who feel lonely? Are there children who need mentorship or tutoring?
The key is to ask:
- What do people need?
- How can I help?
Be observant, be curious, and be compassionate.
2. Audit Your Resources
Once you know the need, ask yourself: What do I already have?
- Do you know people who might help?
- Are there local non-profits or churches that you can partner with?
- What skills do you or your friends have? Cooking, organizing, teaching, even just offering time and attention—all of it matters.
You don’t need massive resources to make a difference. Creativity, teamwork, and a willingness to learn go a long way.
3. Plan and Execute Together
One of the greatest joys of starting an outreach project is doing it with others. Gather a group of friends, classmates, or members of your community. Share the vision, make a plan, and divide tasks.
The Nephi Group described this experience as transformational. It wasn’t just about helping others—it was about building unity, purpose, and deep bonds within the group.
“It’s a great opportunity to forget about ourselves and do something for someone else.” — Dushan, Czech Republic
4. Growth Comes Through Giving
Something amazing happens when you serve: you grow. The very act of solving problems for others sharpens your own skills—whether it’s communication, leadership, organization, or empathy.
“At Cumorah Academy, we have the chance to be close to the community to serve them and help them learn about Jesus Christ sometimes. It’s very interesting since we have the chance to develop our skills. It’s helped me to learn more about the Savior and increased my testimony on how we can be a good example.” — Esther, Brazil
“It was amazing because I was serving with my group. They are my family.” — Ana Julia, Brazil
When you serve together, you grow together.
5. Remember the Why
The most powerful reason to serve is simple: “Being a giver is what life is all about.” — Filip, Romania.
When you serve, you create moments where you can share and feel the love of God.
“We can share and feel the love of God.” — Maressa, Brazil.
They shared their experience with us! You can watch on the clip below:
Ready to Start Your Own Journey?
If the idea of how to start an outreach project excites you—if you want to become the kind of leader who serves, uplifts, and inspires—then Cumorah Academy might be the place for you.
Here, you won’t just sit in classrooms learning theories. You’ll apply what you learn in real-life projects that impact communities. You’ll join an international group of students from all over the world, united by a desire to grow, serve, and become leaders grounded in faith and humility.
👉 Are you ready to become the leader the world needs?
Come to Cumorah Academy. Grow your talents, deepen your faith, and gain real-world leadership experience that will stay with you forever. Learn more about our programs and how you can be part of this life-changing experience.
Written by Fernando L. Ferreira Jr.
Photos by Julieta Ramirez
Supervision by Kamila Uberto Fullmer
