LAMORINDA WEEKLY | Assisteens show elementary kids how to make a difference


An Assisteen volunteer paints the face of a youngster at a recent Assisteen party. Photo provided

Since 1977, Assisteens, an auxiliary of Assistance League of Diablo Valley, has encouraged teens to volunteer by raising funds that benefit children and seniors in Contra Costa County. Over the years, Assisteens has expanded its membership to include both girls and boys, as well as high school and middle school students. Meeting students from other local schools, these energetic game changers have developed skills in leadership, organization and community service while having fun.

Assisteens from Lafayette include Brooke Clark, Lisa Erenstein, Meher George, Shreekar Pandey, Shrida Pandey and Greg Stenger. Moraga Assisteens include Ana Bernardo, Grace Burnite, Elle D'Iorio, Janet Guo, Devon Lau, Ellen White. And from Orinda, Emily Forkas.

At a recent regular meeting, Assisteens Auxiliary Liaison Linda Benetar specified that Assisteens activities include hosting two parties, one with gifts from Santa and a springtime event, corresponding with homebound seniors and delivering a gift basket to each of them in the spring, as well as supplying snack packs for receiving center emergency kits. Additionally, Assisteens commit to working at the Assistance League Way Side Inn Thrift Shop, the chapter's primary fundraiser located in Lafayette, and supporting chapter programs throughout the year.

To learn more about Assisteens, please visit this website: diablovalley.assistanceleague.org.