CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Elijah Wilson loves math. 

In the last few years, his love for numbers has helped him find a new passion, tutoring at the Nest Academy, a private school for refugee, underprivileged and at-risk kids in East Charlotte.

Wilson says his family started volunteering at the Nest Academy soon after they opened their doors.

“I've always liked volunteering as I've grown up,” said Wilson. “Just helping others gives you that sense of purpose in life.”

What You Need To Know

  •  Elijah Wilson loves math

  •  He also has found a passion for volunteering

  •  The Nest Academy asked Elijah to come help tutor math to kids in need

  • The opportunity has opened Elijah's eyes to not only helping others, but learning about what others are going through

It's a purpose that grew as he entered high school. The teachers at the Nest Academy say they saw first-hand his ability to work with students.

“He's passionate about what he's doing, he cares about the kids, asks them how they are, connects with them,” said Nest Academy founder M.C. Hildreth. “You know, those are the real hidden angels in our community, the ones that really aren't boasting about what they're doing, but are really solid in the fact that they know who they are.”

For Wilson, it’s not just about adding another activity to his college applications. It’s also about the satisfaction of getting to see those lightbulb moments when the lessons finally click.

“It's very rewarding because, like I said, you can feel comfortable and feel more like you're able to make more of an impact because you have your own skills to share,” said Wilson.

Wilson isn’t sure what school he wants to go to in the fall yet, but he hopes to study chemical engineering. And of course, continue to volunteer wherever he lands. 

Wilson was presented with a $1,000 scholarship by North Carolina Rep. Tricia Cotham (District 112) on behalf of Spectrum Networks, as part of the High School Scholars program.