A Teen From Union County Won $2,500 To Better Her Community

The Hillcrest Academy South student wants to distribute food and hygiene bags to those in need

GIRLS ON A MISSION WITH AMBITION

A teen from Elizabeth is inspiring others, winning a competition amongst dozens of other teens whose mission is to better serve the community.

During the annual BeYOUtifull Girls Empowerment Conference in November, girls ages 10-18 from Union County were surveyed on how they feel about the state of their community. At the end of the survey, they were able to submit a video pitching a local community project. The campaign received 42 submissions based on the question: “What would you do to improve your community if given $2,500?”

Sarah Ali’s idea, which won the competition, suggested an event at a local park with a food truck to distribute free food and hygiene bags to unhoused individuals of Elizabeth. The 17-year-old student from Hillcrest Academy South in Elizabeth addressed important community needs such as hunger, hygiene and improving public spaces. She had to research her project, form it into an idea and execute it.

Sarah received $2,500 for her female youth civic pitch.

“The inspiration I have is from living in a community where I see homeless people in need,” Sarah told New Jersey Family. “I think it’s important to help those in need because a little kindness goes a long way. As a Girl on a Mission with Ambition, I learned that helping others is important because the help we give can give others hope and make a positive impact.”

The Citizens branch located at 51 S. Broad St. in Elizabeth will accept donations of hygiene products and non-perishable food items during regular branch hours (Monday to Friday from 9 am to 4 pm, and Saturdays from 9 am to 12 pm) through May 31. Citizens volunteers and Girls on a Mission with Ambition mentees will package the donated products and partner with a local food bank to staff a mobile food pantry to distribute the food and personal care items to community members in need.

The collections started during Women’s History Month because Girls on a Mission with Ambition is a local non-profit that empowers young girls to make tangible differences in their neighborhoods.

“We’re thrilled to support Girls on a Mission with Ambition and help execute Sarah’s inspiring idea to benefit the Elizabeth community,” said Rebecca O’Connell, Citizens Region Executive for NYC Metro, Long Island, and New Jersey.  “Citizens is committed to helping those we serve to reach their potential, which is why we are especially proud to help foster the passion and growth of our female future leaders like Sarah who are contributing to the strength and vitality of our neighborhoods.”

Overall, the girls who entered the contest were mostly concerned with sanitation (50 percent), safety (23 percent) and public spaces (19 percent). When asked how they would allocate $2,500 for their community, 42 percent opted for parks and recreation, 23 percent for safety, 19 percent for sanitation, and 9 percent for better infrastructure. Half of the girls acknowledged a need for a few changes in the community, while 26 percent asserted that definite changes are required. More than 80 percent of the girls believed schools should teach money management skills.

In response to what they love most about their community, 33 percent said fun activities and programs, 28 percent highlighted public spaces, 26 percent appreciated the people, and 9 percent mentioned their school.

Is your child doing inspiring work in the community? If so, let us know by emailing editor@njfamily.com.

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