Step Up for Youth: Infusing Young Leaders, Building Tomorrow
Connecting Young Leaders to Communities, Shaping the Future Together
Ava's Journey: From Volunteer to Youth Leader
A little over a year ago, Youth Infusion had the privilege of meeting Ava Biskup at East Stroudsburg High School South through her involvement in the Philosophy Club. It was there that Ava and her peers first connected with our Youth Talks Podcast Program, amplifying their voices on critical topics that mattered most to them—especially as the War in Ukraine unfolded. This platform gave them the space to share their thoughts, concerns, and hopes for the world, allowing them to shape conversations within their school community.
Ava didn’t stop there. Her passion for global issues led her to found and lead her school’s Model UN Club, where she invited Youth Infusion to speak about the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are at the core of our Youth Leadership Advisory Board (YLAB) Program. It was clear early on that Ava had a powerful voice and the desire to make a difference.
In April 2024, Ava volunteered at Youth Infusion's Earth Day Event, taking on leadership roles and using her growing confidence to mentor younger girls, ages 10-15, as part of our Girls Infused Program. Watching Ava guide and inspire these young participants was a testament to her natural leadership skills and her ability to connect with others.
Now a Student Ambassador at her school, Ava represents Youth Infusion with pride. She actively promotes the YLAB Program to her peers, encouraging other young people to get involved and become leaders in their own communities. Through her involvement with Youth Infusion, she has had opportunities to meet local state representatives and attend community outreach events, developing crucial 21st-century skills that will serve her for years to come.
But perhaps the most profound change we’ve seen in Ava is her growing confidence. From podcasting to mentoring, from speaking at public events to stepping into leadership roles, Ava’s journey with Youth Infusion has transformed her into a strong, capable young leader. In May 2025, she will take the stage as one of the featured speakers at the NEPA Youth-Led Conference at Kalahari Resorts, sharing her inspiring story with other young people, leaders, and changemakers.
In recognition of her remarkable leadership, Ava has also joined our Youth Infusion's Board of Directors to represent youth voices and perspectives.
Ava’s journey with Youth Infusion is a powerful reminder of how young leaders, when given the right opportunities and support, can thrive and create lasting change in their communities. This giving season, your support will help us empower more young people like Ava, giving them the tools they need to build a brighter tomorrow.