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Teen hands.jpeg

Gather to Give

Where Connection Meets Community Service.

What Is Gather to Give?

Gather to Give 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.

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It's where teens learn to connect, converse, and be kind while serving others – developing purpose and passion through meaningful work.

NOTE: The program is currently at capacity. Please email us to be waitlisted. 

2025-2026 Meeting Dates:
September 21 • October 19 • November 16

December 21 • January 18 • February 15

March 15 • April 19 • May 17

  • Gather to Give 2025

    Started Sep 21

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Meaningful Service Projects

Every month brings a new way to help our community through food and caring:

  • Creating care packages for senior centers

  • Preparing healthy treats and snacks for children's hospitals, firehouses, police departments

  • Hosting bake sales for local causes

  • Writing encouragement cards to accompany our gifts

  • 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 12-17 (all skill levels welcome)
When: Third Sunday of each month, 2:30-5:00 PM
Where: 79 Verona Avenue Yonkers, NY 10710
Duration: September through May (9 meetings)
Group Size: Limited to 10
Cost: FREE **Suggested $50. donation 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 Give 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.
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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. We ask for a minimum 3-month commitment but prefer the entire 9 months to allow friendships and group dynamics to develop naturally.

 

What we provide:

  • All ingredients and supplies

  • Professional instruction and guidance

  • Community service hour documentation

  • A safe, nurturing environment for growth

 

What your teen brings:

  • Willingness to try new things

  • Respect for others and our shared space

  • Commitment to the group experience

  • An open heart

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