
Gather to Give TM
Where Connection Meets Community Service.
What Is Gather to GiveTM?
Gather to GiveTM creates authentic connections through cooking, conversation, and community service. Led by Melanie, a 30-year certified culinary and mindfulness educator and 40-year volunteer, this isn't just another volunteer program.
It's where teens learn to connect, converse, and be kind while serving others – developing purpose and passion through meaningful work.
QUESTIONS?
2026-2027 Meeting Dates:
September 13 • October 18 • November 15
December 13 • January 17 • February 21
March 21 • April 18 • May 16
Starts Sep 13
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Meaningful Service Projects
Every month brings a new way to help our community through food and caring:
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Creating care packages for senior centers
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Preparing healthy treats and snacks for children's hospitals, firehouses, police departments
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Hosting bake sales for local causes
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Writing encouragement cards to accompany our gifts
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Delivering treats to to local organizations
Community Service Hours
Earn 25-30+ community service hours throughout the program year, with additional opportunities for more. Perfect for high school graduation requirements, college applications, and personal growth.
Program Details
Who: Ages 12-16 (all skill levels welcome)
When: Third Sunday of each month, 2:30-5:00 PM **EXCEPT 2ND Sunday September 13 and December 13**
Where: 79 Verona Avenue Yonkers, NY 10710
Duration: September through May (9 meetings)
Group Size: Limited to 8
Cost: $300. per child to offset food/supply costs
What Happens at Each Gathering?
Welcome & Connect - Check in with each other, share highlights from the month
Cook & Create Together - Bake cookies, prepare care packages, or craft items for others while building natural friendships
Share & Plan - Enjoy snacks together while discussing upcoming service projects and choosing recipients
Package & Reflect - Finish current project, write cards/notes, celebrate our impact
The Connection Teens Need
Recent studies show teen loneliness is at epidemic levels. Gather to GiveTM addresses this crisis head-on by creating the deep, meaningful relationships teens crave while channeling their energy toward helping others – developing purpose and passion through work they love.
Your teen will:
Form genuine friendships with like-minded peers
Develop leadership skills and confidence
Learn practical cooking and life skills
Experience the joy of making a real difference
Build a strong foundation for their college applications
Feel genuinely valued and purposeful
Ready to Give Your Teen Something Meaningful?
Space is intentionally limited to ensure every person gets personal attention and forms meaningful connections.
What we provide:
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All ingredients and supplies
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Professional instruction and guidance
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Community service hour documentation
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A safe, nurturing environment for growth
What your teen brings:
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Willingness to try new things
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Respect for others and our shared space
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Commitment to the group experience
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An open heart
QUESTIONS?

