Local teens dedicated to help the community

Inspiration was sparked in college freshmen and Coconut Grove natives, Zena Stephens, graduated of Ransom Everglades Upper School and student of Oglethorpe University, and Paige Humphrey, graduate of Coral Gables High School and student of University of Central Florida on May 9^th, 2010. This spark grew into a fire overnight forming Team G.O, Generation Outreach. Both young women were desperate to help their community, and in a few months this non-profit has blossomed into a changing force.  Their mission is to provide life altering opportunities in the Coconut Grove community, built on the principles of Civic Engagement. Dedicated to enhancing the lives of underprivileged individuals through continuous fundraising and community service. Team G.O uses the resources of the community to better the community. This organization wishes to assemble a tight-knit bond within the area, and ensure a long term improvement of addressed issues by educating the community at each event.

The first project for this new-born organization is called “When I Grow Up.”  Its purpose is to sponsor selected students from the three local elementary schools of the Coconut Grove area, Coconut Grove Elementary, George Washington Carver Elementary, and Frances Tucker Elementary School with their school supplies for the 2010-2011 school year.  Each selected candidate display need-base and academic excellence. The first event was held on July 18^th, 2010 at Ransom Everglades. It was the First Annual Fundraiser and Performance which benefited “When I Grow Up.” This event allowed a variety of young performers to volunteer their time, efforts, and talents to an audience. This year’s performers ranged from age 7-24, and talents included Hip-Hop and Bollywood dancing, singing, acting, spoken word, and more. Our next event will be an Alternative Teen Party. We aim to create an environment for teenagers to come and have fun without alcohol, drugs, or violence.

Team G.O currently has two more projects in the works. One aims to mentor young ladies from inner-city areas by supplying “real talk” regarding various topics all young women should have a chance to hear.  This will also supply them with a safe environment to speak freely and answer any questions or concerns they may have. The other project aims to sponsor a recovering addict with “A Night On the Town.” A candidate, selected based on their growth, will receive a makeover including: hair, make-up, and wardrobe. They will also be treated to a wonderful experience of the Miami nightlife.

Team G.O is a thriving non-profit constantly seeking more help, donations, and sponsorship. Please visit us at www.teamgo10.org to stay connected with us.