Teen Volunteers in Action SD1 Chapter kicks off 2016-17 year

The founding SD1 Chapter of Teen Volunteers in Action (TVIA) held its yearly kick-off event Aug. 28 at the San Dieguto County Park. This year’s annual kick off featured a new format, introducing the approximately 180 young men to five different philanthropies served by the TVIA Chapter. The youth, grades 7-12, interacted with each of the five charities to further learn how their volunteerism helps their organizations.

“This year’s event is about being open to new experiences,” said Rebecca Nunes, TVIA SD1 Chapter president. “I hope that you will engage with these charities today and walk away with a new understanding of their important role in our San Diego community, and how your work with their organizations can truly make a difference.”

Serving the north coastal communities of Del Mar, Carmel Valley, Solana Beach, Rancho Santa Fe, Encinitas and Carlsbad, TVIA is an organization of young men grades 7-12, committed to developing community leaders through a structured program of volunteerism, philanthropy and personal growth. The youth participate in numerous community service events throughout the school year.

The kick-off event was organized by TVIA’s Leadership Council with Patrick Rahilly, a junior at San Dieguto Academy, providing opening remarks and Gabriel Krut, a senior from The Bishop’s School, closing out the event.

Representatives from Miracle League of San Diego, Burrito Boyz, New Haven Youth & Family Services, Helen Bernardy Center and the Sudanese American Youth Center gave presentations at the kick-off event to the TVIA teens.

At the event, the TVIA members brought donations of diapers for the Camp Pendleton Jewish Families Services. To learn more about TVIA, visit www.tvia.org. Photos by McKenzie Images.