In October, the Greater Princeton Branch of AYLUS (GPA) celebrated its three years of leadership since 2018, producing a promotional video. GPA has shared this video with its over 430 members and many communities across the country.
With the growing awareness of challenges within our society, it is important for youths to take on a role in helping their community. In late 2018, the Greater Princeton branch of the Alliance of Youth Leaders in the United States, also called GPA, was founded by Cassie Wang with a vision to gather young volunteers into a service team. Since its founding, GPA members have devised and executed a multitude of initiatives that are all connected to our core mission of saving a life.
In 2019, Cassie initiated the “Save A Life Foundation”, and we were able to accomplish a variety of meaningful services. Our fundraisers included hosting benefit concerts and a charity art exhibition. Our large-scale volunteering events included donation drives, and cleaning up parks.
Following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, GPA upheld its mission of “Save a Life” through leading nationwide PPE donations to hospitals, senior living centers, etc. To encourage and recognize the heroism of our frontline workers, AYLUS members hand-drew cards. As a means of providing a source of hope and entertainment during the pandemic, GPA hosted many virtual concerts during the holidays.
GPA has been carrying out a variety of long-term events. Members continually perform for seniors, collect clothes, toys, and shoes for people in need, and volunteer at “Life Saving” non-profit organizations. GPA sponsors annual AYLUS International Art & Media Contests, accepting themed entries from students. Through these contests, GPA highlights the creativity of its young participants and raises awareness for important issues such as the pandemic and conservation. Our dedication to the environment leads us to many conservation projects, such as “Roots for River” and “Forest Restoration” tree-planting events.
Facing the 20th anniversary of 9/11, our members collected over $2000 to provide “Meals from the Heart” donations and express their gratitude to hundreds of firefighters from over 20 fire departments throughout NJ.
Due to its execution of unique and hugely impactful community service projects, GPA has been awarded the Jefferson Awards, also called the American “Nobel Prize” for public service. We also provide the opportunity for members to be awarded the PVSA.
Whether it be through cleaning up our environment, providing essential resources to those who need it, or performing critical services, volunteering is a transformative experience for those who participate in it. Our members have been able to develop their leadership skills, creativity, and sense of responsibility towards improving our society and helping everyone in it.
Do you want to join our over 430 members? Contact us at our email. We hope to see you soon!
Director: Xinyi Christine Zhang (10/2, 3 hrs; 10/3, 3 hrs; 10/9, 3 hrs; 10/10, 3 hrs; 10/17, 3 hrs; 10/21, 3 hrs)
Producer: Cassie Tammy Wang (10/10, 2 hrs; 10/17, 2 hrs; 10/21, 2 hrs)