(April 1, 2025) For 15-year-old Arsh Pal, the path has always been clear, paint with purpose, give with heart. What started as a childhood hobby has blossomed into a powerful movement of creativity, compassion, and community impact. At the tender age of eight, Arsh did something extraordinary. He sold his artwork and donated his very first $1,000 to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in the U.S. that treats and defeats childhood cancer at no cost to families. That milestone marked the beginning of a journey that has now spanned seven years, during which Arsh has raised over $22,000 for various charitable causes.
“I do my art knowing I can help people in need, which gives me a sense of fulfillment,” the Diana awardee tells Global Indian.
View this post on Instagram
A brush with empathy
Born in Davenport, Iowa, Arsh was raised in a family that values service and kindness. His mother works as an occupational therapist, and it was through accompanying her to the nursing home where she worked that Arsh was introduced to a world in need of joy and human connection.
There, he witnessed the loneliness that often hangs over the elderly like a quiet fog. But Arsh quickly realized he could do something about it. Through friendly conversations, therapy games, and eventually his artwork, he began brightening their days. “I teach art lessons to people of all ages to help them with their recreational activities,” remarks the youngster adding, “Art is a healing method that can bring happiness and a sense of achievement.”
View this post on Instagram
The first $1,000: A turning point at eight
What truly set Arsh’s journey apart was his desire to turn his talent into tangible impact. At just eight years old, he set a goal that would seem ambitious for anyone, let alone a child, and that was to raise $1,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. “Initially, people thought I wouldn’t be able to do it, but I put all my heart into it,” he recalls.
With a determination that defied his age, Arsh sold his paintings to local supporters. After reaching the $1,000 goal, he didn’t just feel proud, he felt transformed. That early success fueled his mission, and he hasn’t looked back since. Over the years, he has continued to raise funds for St. Jude, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and many other organisations dedicated to helping those in need.
Arsh Pal after raising some more fund for St. Jude Hospital in 2023
Art for auction, and hearts won
While many of Arsh’s paintings are sold through Instagram and Facebook, his work has also found its way into charity auctions, where it has fetched remarkable sums. In one standout moment, two of his pieces sold for $5,000 each, his highest accomplishment as an artist.
But for Arsh, the money is only part of the story. His artistic growth is constant, and he is now taking advanced painting lessons to improve his technique and deepen his creative voice.
One of Arsh’s creation at an auction
Teaching with heart
Arsh’s commitment to giving isn’t limited to fundraising. For over five years, he has volunteered at nursing homes, leading art lessons for residents, many of whom are elderly or living with disabilities. Teaching them has been a humbling experience, helping Arsh build not only confidence but also empathy.
“Teaching them has been a learning experience for me,” he says. “It taught me how to be more confident, respectful, responsible, and kind. It’s harder to teach senior people or those with disabilities, but it’s also more rewarding,” The residents have formed bonds with him, often looking forward to his visits and lessons.
Arsh with seniors after one of the teaching sessions
Leading the way for young changemakers
Arsh is also a voice for youth leadership in service. As a member of both the Giving Tuesday movement and the Loukoumi Foundation, he works to inspire young people to use their passions for a greater cause. As the board member of the Loukoumi Foundation’s Good Deed Council, he mentors students to discover how even small acts of kindness and utilising their hobbies for the good of others can ripple outward.
His message to young changemakers is simple but powerful. “Find out what you are good at and use that to help people. It doesn’t need to be something big. Even holding the door open or giving someone a compliment can make a difference.”
Arsh Pal
Awards and recognition
The impact of Arsh’s work has earned him international acclaim. His long list of awards includes the Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes, the International Star Kids Award, India’s High Flyer 50, and the National Thomas Jefferson Award. Among all these honours, the one that stands out most is the prestigious Princess Diana Award from the UK.
“I’m inspired by Princess Diana’s work for the community,” he says. Her quote, ‘Young people have the potential to change the world’ has really stuck with him. It’s a philosophy that has guided Arsh’s journey and continues to fuel his mission.
Arsh Pal at the KCRG-TV9 award function where he was chosen and awarded with the National Thomas Jefferson award out of all nine honourees
Plans for future
The 9th grader at the Plainfield North High School in Illinois dreams of pursuing biology or medicine, he knows that painting and philanthropy will always remain a part of his identity. His father who is from Hyderabad, while mother from Indore have instilled in him values of humility, hard work, and giving back.
“When I do good, it really motivates me to keep doing art and keep helping the community,” he says. And that motivation is the lifeblood of everything he does.
Arsh Pal with family
In Arsh Pal’s world, every canvas is more than just colour and form. It’s a conduit of hope, a message of kindness, and a powerful reminder that when art meets heart, even the smallest hands can make the biggest difference.
- Follow Arsh Pal on Instagram and Facebook
- Read More Fascinating Stories
