It has been a while but I am back! For those who don’t know me, I have been a part of the Point Pleasant Presbyterian Church since I was born. My siblings and I were all baptized here, my brother was “baby Jesus” in the 1993 Christmas Pageant (he was only 3 months old). My mother was a Sunday School teacher for many years, has always advocated for the youth, and is one of the reasons I took this position.

As a child, I watched my sister go through the youth group program and I couldn’t wait to join when I was old enough. I attended Sunday School, confirmation class, and youth group. In 2008 (with a scholarship from the Women’s Club), I went to Johnsonburg for three weeks for the Leadership Training Program. The next 5 summers were spent at Johnsonburg as a camp counselor. After Johnsonburg, I was a lead scientist/camp counselor at New Logic Marine Science Camp. Since graduating from Stockton University with a BS in Marine Science in 2018, I have been job searching and working as a nanny part-time.

When I was first approached with this opportunity, I was uncertain. And then I thought how youth group made such a positive impact on my life, I would love to give the youth a great experience, as well! Here we are, almost 10 years after I graduated from high school and youth group, working towards creating a safe place for youth in the community.

If anyone is interested in helping, feel free to reach out to me. If you have young people who would like to join, send them our way! Starting in September 2019, our youth group will be for 6th to 12th graders. Starting in April 2019 we will have events (including potential community service hours) for 5th to 12th graders. I am excited to start this journey, and know, with your support, it will be a success. It takes a village!

Alissa Pazienza
Alissa.PointPleasantYG@gmail.com