Meet Sunny Chen | Non-Profit Organization Founder & CEO

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sunny Chen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sunny, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
Reflecting on my journey with ReSoap Foundation, the most important lesson I’ve learned is the incredible strength found in resilience. When I embarked on this mission as a high school student with limited experience, the challenges of launching a nonprofit were daunting. There were moments when the weight of it all felt overwhelming. I recall numerous times when plans unraveled—events that didn’t materialize, initiatives that struggled to gain momentum, and phases when progress seemed agonizingly slow. Each setback felt like a personal failure, causing me to question whether I was truly equipped for this path.

As time went on, I realized that resilience isn’t just about surviving adversity; it’s about transforming those challenges into opportunities for growth. It’s a quality that strengthens with each use. I learned to view setbacks as integral to the journey rather than as obstacles. Every challenge I faced became a stepping stone, imparting vital lessons about adaptability, creativity, and maintaining a positive outlook.

For example, during our hygiene kit packaging event, we didn’t draw the volunteer turnout I had hoped for. I could have easily succumbed to defeat. Instead, I took the initiative to connect with my network, sharing our mission’s story to rally support. This effort not only boosted participation but also fostered relationships that became essential to our ongoing success.

Through these experiences, I discovered that stumbling is a natural part of growth; what matters is the ability to rise again and keep moving forward. Resilience has taught me to be flexible, allowing me to adjust my strategies rather than abandon them altogether. I came to appreciate that each challenge carries a lesson, and these lessons have formed the bedrock of my development, both personally and for ReSoap.

This journey has ingrained in me the belief that every setback is a hidden opportunity. It serves as a reminder that we can navigate the challenges life presents if we approach them with determination and an open heart. I encourage anyone on a similar path to embrace resilience as a guiding principle. Let it inspire you to continue pushing forward, even when faced with adversity. Ultimately, it’s not solely about reaching your goals; it’s about the invaluable growth you experience along the way.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At ReSoap Foundation, our mission is rooted in bridging the gap between those who have and those who need. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we are dedicated to addressing two pressing global issues: hygiene poverty and climate change. Our approach is guided by three key projects: Project ReSoap, Project Re: Soap, and Project Four R’s.

Project ReSoap focuses on digital advocacy within the healthcare and environmental sectors, empowering our ambassadors to research, write, and share impactful stories through our digital magazine and podcast. Project Re: Soap takes direct action against hygiene poverty, organizing donation drives and packaging hygiene kits for those in need. Finally, Project Four R’s emphasizes sustainability, hosting events that reduce waste through secondhand donations and community cleanups.

What truly sets ReSoap apart is our ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds around a common cause. We’ve demonstrated our commitment to caring for homeless families through personalized hygiene kit donations, empowered women by destigmatizing menstruation, and brought smiles to children through our dental educational initiatives. Our book drives allow students to learn and grow, while our clothing charities provide individuals with renewed confidence. We’ve even been able to support underprivileged schools with phones through our Meta grant. Each item we distribute—whether it’s a hygiene kit, menstrual product, book, or clothing—represents a tangible act of shared humanity.

One of the aspects I am most excited about is how ReSoap has become a platform for diverse voices. Our recently launched digital magazine and podcast cover a wide range of topics, from hygiene challenges in Ghana to nutritional guides and even discussions about Taylor Swift’s environmental impact. This diversity enriches our mission and amplifies the voices of those we serve, creating strong connections between donors, volunteers, educators, and recipients.

Reaching this point has not been without its challenges. When I first started the foundation, I faced moments of doubt and uncertainty, often feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of the issues we were tackling. However, I learned to embrace resilience and adaptability. Each setback became an opportunity to reevaluate and recalibrate our approach. For instance, when our initial hygiene kit packaging event didn’t attract as many volunteers as we had hoped, I reached out to my network, shared our mission, and inspired others to join us. This not only increased participation but also forged meaningful connections that enhanced our future initiatives.

Through this journey, I’ve learned that resilience is about transforming challenges into growth opportunities. It’s essential to view every setback as a lesson rather than a failure. Each experience has shaped my understanding of flexibility, innovation, and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset.

Ultimately, I want the world to know that ReSoap Foundation is more than just a nonprofit; it’s a movement dedicated to making a real difference. We invite everyone to join us in this journey of compassion and change. There’s so much more to come, whether it’s through hygiene kit packaging events, secondhand clothing drives, or engaging discussions on our podcast. Together, we can create a brighter future for all.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: South Beach & Art
Breakfast: Start at Yelp’s Breakfast Club for a delicious brunch, featuring their famous avocado toast and hearty omelets.
Beach Time: Head to South Beach to soak up the sun and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Rent bikes or rollerblades to cruise along the Ocean Drive Boardwalk.
Lunch: Grab lunch at La Sandwicherie, known for its fresh, made-to-order sandwiches and unique toppings.
Afternoon: Visit the Wynwood Walls, an outdoor street art museum showcasing vibrant murals and graffiti. Explore the surrounding Wynwood neighborhood for quirky shops and galleries.
Dinner: Enjoy dinner at CVI.CHE 105, famous for its Peruvian ceviche and flavorful dishes.
Nightlife: End the day at Mango’s Tropical Café for live music and dancing in a festive atmosphere.

Day 2: Nature & Culture
Breakfast: Head to Greenstreet Cafe in Coconut Grove for a laid-back breakfast with outdoor seating.
Morning: Spend the morning at Matheson Hammock Park for kayaking or paddleboarding in a calm lagoon surrounded by nature.
Lunch: Enjoy a casual meal at Taqueria El Mexicano for authentic tacos.
Afternoon: Explore the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) for contemporary art exhibits and stunning views of Biscayne Bay.
Dinner: Dine at Yardbird Southern Table & Bar, known for its Southern comfort food and relaxed vibe.
Evening: Relax at Sweet Liberty Drinks & Supply Co., a local favorite for craft cocktails in a laid-back setting.

Day 3: Unique Experiences & Farewell
Breakfast: Try The Daily Creative Food Co. for a fresh, tasty breakfast before starting your day.
Morning: Visit The Museum of Ice Cream for a fun and immersive experience that’s perfect for photos and sharing.
Lunch: Grab a bite at Yardbird for their delicious fried chicken and biscuits.
Afternoon: Explore Little Haiti, where you can enjoy local art, music, and culture. Stop by the Little Haiti Cultural Complex for exhibits and performances.
Dinner: Celebrate your last night at Komodo, a trendy Asian fusion restaurant with a stunning ambiance.
Evening: Cap off the trip at Ball & Chain, a historic venue in Little Havana known for live music, dancing, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my mom, who has been a silent supporter throughout this journey. Her unwavering belief in my vision inspired me to start ReSoap Foundation in the first place. I remember sitting at the kitchen table, sharing my concerns about the challenges of launching a nonprofit. Instead of letting me doubt myself, she encouraged me to pursue my passions and reminded me that every great change begins with a single step.

During those early days, when setbacks felt like personal failures, my mom was always there with words of wisdom. There were moments when I doubted whether I could lead the organization effectively or if I was making a meaningful impact. In those times, she reminded me of the countless lives we were touching and the importance of resilience. Her encouragement helped me view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles.

Additionally, her ability to remain calm during tough times taught me the value of patience and perseverance. Whether it was late-night brainstorming sessions or preparing for our first hygiene kit packaging event, she never hesitated to lend a helping hand or offer advice. Her belief in the mission kept me motivated, especially when the road got bumpy.

I’m deeply grateful for her influence on my journey. Without her support, I truly believe I wouldn’t be where I am today. My mom exemplifies the kind of love and encouragement that fuels change, and I want to acknowledge her as a vital part of my story. Thank you, Mom, for always being there and for inspiring me to make a difference in the world!

Website: https://resoapfoundation.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/resoapfoundation/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/resoap-foundation?trk=similar-pages

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/resoapfoundation

Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1urQvGx7U4o8xrqRbudQIR
Medium: https://medium.com/@resoapinvolvement