Members of the AYLUS Morris branch partnered with Help4All, a local nonprofit organization, to support the homeless community in Newark, New Jersey. This meaningful initiative focused on collecting new or gently used yoga mats, which can serve as portable sleeping pads and offer some comfort and insulation to those without shelter. Recognizing the importance of small items that can make a big difference, AYLUS members took action to mobilize their community and make a positive impact.
To begin the project, our members designed informative posters and distributed them throughout the neighborhood and nearby fitness centers to raise awareness about the cause. The posters encouraged local residents to donate yoga mats in good condition and detailed where and how to contribute. The team also set up a designated collection site at a local gym, making it easy and accessible for donors to participate. Over the course of several days, the site became a hub of generosity, with community members stopping by to contribute to the effort.
Thanks to the hard work and coordination of our members, a total of 10 yoga mats were collected. On Thursday afternoon, March 27, the mats were carefully packed and delivered to Help4All’s drop-off location. The organization expressed appreciation for the donation, which will directly benefit individuals experiencing homelessness in the Newark area.
This project exemplifies the AYLUS Morris branch’s ongoing commitment to service and collaboration. By working together with Help4All and engaging local residents, our members not only collected essential items but also helped foster a spirit of compassion and community. Every small act counts, and this successful yoga mat drive stands as a testament to the power of youth-led initiatives to bring about meaningful change.
Volunteers:
2 hours: Kelly Nie, Han Li, Shirley Nie, Ivy Bai
Advisors:
Xue Gu
Linna Wang