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Gainesville Youth Participate in Global Youth Service Day

Teens at the Gainesville State School joined millions of others around the globe who were celebrating Global Youth Service Day (GYSD).  The Gainesville youth participated in projects that will impact four community organizations in a youth-led initiative.


Gainesville City Manager Barry Sullivan led the kick-off event, issuing a proclamation, making it “Global Youth Service Day in Gainesville, Texas.”  Youth learned about children’s health as they made “booboo bunnies” for the local hospital emergency room and Children’s Hospital.   They learned about problems associated with literacy as they made alphabet coloring books with traceable letters for the local Head Start program.  Youth learned about hunger as they created colorful paper baskets filled with nutritious snacks for VISTO.  Youth also learned about animal abuse/neglect as they made puppy blankets and chew toys for Noah’s Ark animal shelter.


Global Youth Service Day recognizes the positive impact that young people have on their communities 365 days a year. GYSD is celebrated in more than 135 countries with youth-led service projects. Youth involved in the juvenile justice system are just as equipped to do good in their communities as those outside the system. Many possess strong leadership qualities and desire to make a positive impact on others. GYSD gives them the perfect opportunity to practice pro-social behaviors and demonstrate empathy for others.


PHOTO: (Left to right) Gainesville City Manager, a Gainesville youth and Gainesville State School staff Megan Sanders work on a GYSD project.

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