
Gather to Give
Where Connection Meets Community Service
​
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. It's where teens learn to connect, converse, and be kind while serving others – developing purpose and passion through meaningful work.
​
What Is Gather to Give?
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
2025-2026 Meeting Dates:
-
September 21 • October 19 • November 16
-
December 21 • January 18 • February 15
-
March 15 • April 19 • May 17
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.
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
The program is currently at capacity. Please email us to be waitlisted.