Mount Students Aid Homeless as Teens for Teens Members
On March 27, the 12th annual Teens for Teens gala was held at Stone House in Warren. Students from the Mount, who have been furthering the organization’s mission for years, include Emma Grillon '25, Maeve Mooney '26, Frances Studer '26, Cora Waldron '26, Maia Chayapruks '27, Josie Heim '27, Ellie Baglien '25 and Lexi Baglien '27.
Each year, the group of local teenagers choose a different charity to support through this important fundraiser. At this year’s gala, they honored The Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless. The gala featured a silent auction, raffle baskets, performances, and a presentation from a representative of the Coalition.
Ellie said, “Teens for Teens is an amazing organization that gives students in high school a chance to make a big impact and help others. I have been involved in Teens for Teens for three years and I think it’s really helped me learn more about the issues we face in New Jersey. Being able to address these problems with the help of fellow members is so rewarding and has taught me a lot about working for change.”
"Being involved in Teens for Teens for the past three years has been such an amazing experience," added Emma. "Seeing what our group of teenagers can accomplish has been so inspiring, and each year I am proud to be a part of a team that works to give back to our community."
“Over the past two years of participating in Teens for Teens I have been able to passionately serve my community," said Cora. "This time spent has allowed me to grow personally through cultivating an embracing mindset.”
Frances said, "I have been a part of Teens for Teens since I was a sophomore, and my favorite part of this year was being able to connect with the kids and teens at Bernice’s Place while volunteering."
"This year was my first year volunteering with Teens for Teens," said Maia. "I was drawn to the organization because not only is it an amazing opportunity to meet other like-minded teens, it is also an incredible way for me to give back to the community. Over the past few months, we have been working diligently to raise money for the The Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless. It is special to me knowing that all the work we have put in is going to make a difference in someone else's life."
This was also Josie's first year being involved with Teens for Teens. She said, "But in such a short time I've learned so much and truly made a positive impact. Being part of a team so dedicated to helping others and giving back to the community has been a unique and meaningful experience; whether through raising awareness, funds, or providing support for the issues and organizations focused on each year, Teens for Teens has truly been a catalyst for community involvement and progress!"
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