These Young People Are Making A Difference In The Fight Against Coronavirus

Plus: 15 Heroic Stories From The Coronavirus Frontlines

From medical students graduating early to Forbes Under 30 founders using their companies to lend a hand, young people are rising to meet the challenges of a society transformed by the coronavirus pandemic. Their stories offer hope and courage, but it's important to remember that amid uncertain times, small acts—like checking in with loved ones and making time for self-care—are worth being proud of, too. And if any sort of productivity feels impossible right now, that's okay, normal even. As a viral tweet from earlier this week put it: "You are not working from home; you are at your home during a crisis trying to work."

The COVID-19 pandemic has devastated the restaurant industry. Dining and takeout startup Allset has raised $8.5 million from investors like Andreessen Horowitz to provide relief. Read about how restaurants are turning to this Forbes Under 30 company to rapidly expand their takeout operations.

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“What we're doing is important, and taking care of people is what we got in this business to do anyway,” said Stephen Patrick. He's one of many fourth year medical students jumping into the coronavirus fight—here are some of their stories.

Columbus, Ohio-based Aunt Flow is best known for their cotton tampons and pads. But last month their 23-year-old founder Claire Coder decided to pivot their production to creating 3-ply FDA certified masks. So far the company has supplied 4 million masks to healthcare workers, grocery chains and other frontline workers.

And 21-year-old Ashley Lawrence, a senior at Eastern Kentucky University studying deaf and hard of hearing education, created an innovative mask that uses a clear panel that lets the deaf read lips and facial cues while still adhering to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s new guidelines for face coverings.

"Don’t judge your feelings; notice them. Use them as your map. Don’t be afraid of the truth."

—Dr. Lori Gottlieb