Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
INSPIRING U FOR TEENS
In December of 2020, 16-year old Teen, Ava DiFiore felt inspired to give back to her community. She saw the struggle of the COVID-19 Pandemic in her community, and knew that she wanted to do something really special. After collaboration with Pillars of Light and Love Founder & President, Kathy Opperman, the duo collaborated to create "Inspiring U." You can follow @InspiringUatPLL on Instagram to stay up to date on community projects.
In the words of the Founder Ava, "Inspiring others, while inspiring yourself." For their first-ever event, they held "Inspiring U Day on Main Street" in Trappe, where over 40 local teens made signs with inspirational messages on them, such as: "You got this!", "Don't forget to SMILE!", "Have a Great Day!", and more. This event was a huge success and created the jumpstart platform for the group. The Instagram page, @inspiringuatpll gained almost 200 followers within the first two months!
How does volunteering affect teens mental health?
Ava believes that doing community service, and giving back to the community is vital for a healthy mental state. Ava has watched many people around her struggle with mental wellness, and when creating the group, knew that she wanted the importance of mental wellness of others, and themselves to shine through. In addition to Youth Empowerment programs, Pillars of Light and Love has lots of programs for not just teens, but all ages for a variety of different supportive needs.
The Julia's Joy Teen Empowerment program holds a special place in Ava's heart. At just 13 years old, Ava won first place in the Julia's Joy Voce Idol, in honor of Julia Morath, a Spring-Ford student who committed suicide after a cyber-bullying incident. This fostered a strong desire to help teens who feel as if they are struggling. By bringing teens into the Empowering U Center, Ava knew the socialization after an extended period of isolation would not only be great for others, but herself as well.
Kindness Rock Painting
DOZENS OF HATS MADE BY TEENS
Kindness Rock Painting
ENCOURAGEMENT MESSAGES
DOZENS OF HATS MADE BY TEENS
Kindness Rock Painting
These rocks were placed in the Julia Morath Memorial Garden outside Pillars of Light and Love Headquarters
DOZENS OF HATS MADE BY TEENS
DOZENS OF HATS MADE BY TEENS
DOZENS OF HATS MADE BY TEENS
Ava DiFiore, leader of Inspiring U, holds up hats made by volunteers at home during 2020. The Hat Not Hate Program will distribute the hats to school children as an anti-bullying awareness program
When does inspiring U meet?
Typically, Inspiring U will meet once a month and may meet as part of the Crafts for Kindness Program. Inspiring U is for ages 13-18, and we are always looking for more members. To help get involved you can email staff@pillarsoflightandlove.org
Follow InspiringU
Photo Gallery
