Photographs by William Taufic.
Organizations
Junior United Way (JUW), Neighbor to Neighbor, Kids in Crisis, Junior League of Greenwich
Inspiration
“Volunteering in my community is a really big deal to me,” says Olivia Jones. “Before getting involved with the United Way, I was not aware of how many problems there actually are in Greenwich. I assumed everyone led a life like mine, but I was wrong. So when I volunteer, and especially in my hometown, I’m in a way saying thank you to my parents, teachers and everyone else who has let me live this extraordinary life!”
She continues, “Sometimes you feel as a kid that you can’t make a difference. The JUW club is awesome because we teens are basically in charge of what we want to do or who we want to help.” Last year Olivia served as a teen ambassador at the Junior League’s Positively More event. “It’s an all-day event to help girls in middle school with their health, friends, and school,” explains Olivia. “It was probably one of the best experiences of my life. Seeing these girls open up in the span of about four hours was inspiring.”
Olivia adds, “It’s really important when you are volunteering that you’re not doing it for National Honors Society or for a college application but for the betterment of your community. Once you realize that, volunteering is enjoyable.”
Courage in Action
Olivia is in her second year as president of the Junior United Way Club at GHS. She received the Hometown Hero award from News 12 Connecticut for her work with the United Way.
Sarah Bamford, communications strategist for the Greenwich United Way, comments: “Not only is Olivia the president of the Greenwich Junior United Way, but she is also on the varsity dance team at Greenwich High School, dances at Allegra Dance Studio and was accepted into the National Honors Society. Although this impressive list is enough to qualify Olivia for a Light a Fire award, it’s her genuine heart and proactive spirit that sets her apart from the rest.”
Hopes & Dreams
“I hope that these organizations expand more and have the resources to reach even more families in need of assistance,” says Olivia. “I hope that in the future, more people living in this town—especially teens—are aware of just how much help is needed and get involved.”