Two teens from Monroe Township have been named national YMCA Changemakers for their leadership and commitment to making a difference in the lives of local senior citizens. Selected as part of the YMCA of the USA's national Changemakers initiative, Samantha Mossa, 17, and Siyona Patel, 16, are among a group of young leaders from across the country working to strengthen communities through civic engagement, service, and leadership.
Through their involvement with the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance (YMCA Alliance), the rising seniors at Monroe Township High School, were awarded $1,000 last month to implement their project, "Harvesting Health," in senior communities in Monroe.
They were one of three teams selected as semifinalists by their peers at the 2025 YMCA Changemakers Summit, held June 27–29 in Orlando, FL, for their innovative plan to grow organic vegetables and herbs using hydroponic plant stands, helping ensure local seniors have access to fresh, nutritious food.
"Their leadership and compassion represent the very best of New Jersey's next generation," said YMCA Alliance Chief Executive Officer Julie Gallanty. At the Y, we believe in nurturing the potential of all young people. These changemakers show how youth leadership can drive real change and build stronger, healthier communities."
Read more at Tap Into East Brunswick
