Teens Give Back at Volunteer Night

On a Monday night when the average teenager was either watching television, doing homework, or pretending to do homework but instead browsing their facebook page, a group of Syosset teens at were doing something a little bit different.

Around 20 Syosset teens and kids from grades 6-12 showed up at the library Monday night for t, an hour-long program that allows kids to give back to the community in various ways. 

"It's a good turnout for a school night," said librarian and program coordinator Sharon Long. "And it's always good to have the older teens come out and help the younger kids."

Students worked on three different projects Monday: a thank you card for veterans at a local nursing home, a puzzle for the kids at the children section of the library, and get-well cards for sick kids and adults at a local hospital. 

Most earned community service credit for their participation, but Syosset high school junior Jesse Kressel said they were all really there for one reason: to give back.

"It's rewarding to give back to the community," Kressel said.

With Veteran's day just passing, the program offered a perfect opportunity for teens to say "thanks" to those who have served our country.

"I am glad that I get to thank them directly, for all that they've done for us," said junior Ryan Jacobs, who worked on his card to thank the Veterans. "It's the least we can do."

Danielle Stranieri, a seventh-grader, has done babysitting at the library and said her mom gave her the idea to come to Monday's program. She said she was glad to be there and help out.

"I like knowing that someone else is happy from this," Stranieri said as she worked on her thank you card. "That I've made someone else's day from what I did."

For more information on program's at the library and availability, please visit the library website, or call them at (516) 921-7161.