While summer is often thought of as a time for students to take a break, Villa Duchesne student Trudy Redmond had a different idea. A year ago, as a rising high school freshman, Trudy decided to approach Genny, in search of an opportunity to volunteer. In Trudy’s words,

 

“I wanted to give back to my community as helping others has always been a priority of mine. But, I was unsuccessful when searching for volunteer opportunities that I could do at my age. I then just decided I would create my own. After doing some research, the JJMF stood out to me, so I decided to reach out to Genny about starting a Youth Board, and now here we are!”

 

Genny loved the idea, so with the support of the JJMF team, Trudy established one of the only area youth boards in the nonprofit space. The mission of the JJMF Youth Board is to raise awareness and gain support from middle and high school teens for the JJMF community of  medically complex children and their families. 

 

To date the JJMF Youth Board has:

 

• Crafted 200 beaded bracelets to be included in care packages for mothers of children with complex neurological conditions
• Provided face painting for children at JJMF’s booth at St. Louis Children’s Hospital’s Tri My Best Adaptive Triathlon
• Volunteered at JJMF events including the “Not-so-haunted House” Halloween party at The Magic House and An Evening of Joy annual fundraiser
• Held an adaptive and sensory toy drive and hosted JJMF’s first holiday family event

 

Most recently, the JJMF Youth Board planned its first fundraiser, a pickleball tournament at Bellerive Country Club. 

 

“The JJMF team was thrilled with the idea of hosting a pickleball tournament, and the Youth Board did an amazing job planning and bringing the event to life,” said Genny. “Pickleball players of all ages came together for some friendly competition and fun. It was a beautiful day that showcased a new way for our supporters and friends to get involved with the JJMF.” 

 

Going forward, the JJMF Youth Board would like to grow participation to include representation from all area high schools. As summer 2024 gets underway, it’s the perfect time for local teens to consider getting involved! 

 

If you, or someone you know, is interested in learning more about the JJMF Youth Board and these meaningful events and ways to support the JJMF mission, please don’t hesitate to connect with Trudy or the JJMF team.