2020-2021 Reconnection, Recovery, and Renewal
As communities gradually reopened following the COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 marked a year of reconnection and renewed hope for Impact Youth Club (IYC). Building on the resilience and innovation developed during the previous year, IYC successfully embraced a hybrid approach, combining virtual programs with a safe and joyful return to in-person service. Throughout the year, our volunteers focused on rebuilding community connections, expanding cultural outreach, and celebrating a major milestone while continuing to inspire youth through meaningful service and leadership.
In 2021, IYC's network remained strong, with 123 dedicated members across our four branches in New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, and Taiwan. Despite the continued challenges of the pandemic, our volunteers contributed an impressive 4,142 service hours and earned 26 President's Volunteer Service Awards (PVSA), reflecting their unwavering commitment to serving their communities.
In recognition of IYC's lasting impact and Ms. Wendy Wu's extraordinary leadership during the pandemic, the founder of IMPACT Youth Club was honored with the prestigious Daily Point of Light Award from the Points of Light Foundation. Established by President George H. W. Bush, this national honor recognizes individuals whose volunteer service creates meaningful change in their communities. The award celebrated both Ms. Wu's leadership and the collective dedication and impact of IYC volunteers throughout the pandemic and beyond.
Community Outreach at Murray Hill Day
In November of 2020, Impact Youth Club (IYC) participated in the Murray Hill Vendor & Coupon Day, marking our first community outreach and publicity event of the year. Volunteers welcomed local families, introduced them to IYC's mission, and shared information about our youth leadership and community service programs.
The event provided a wonderful opportunity to connect with the community, build new relationships, and inspire more young people and families to become involved in volunteer service. It was a successful day of outreach that helped expand awareness of IYC and our commitment to empowering youth through meaningful community engagement.
Fighting Hunger: Community Food Donations
In 2021, Impact Youth Club (IYC) partnered with The Salvation Army of Trenton and HomeFront of Lawrenceville to help address food insecurity in our local communities. Through the generosity of our volunteers, families, and supporters, IYC donated approximately $1,600 worth of food, providing more than 530 meals to local food pantries.
This initiative reflected IYC's commitment to caring for those in need while encouraging youth to make a meaningful difference through compassion, generosity, and community service. Every donation, no matter the size, helped bring hope and support to families facing difficult circumstances.
Standing Together Against Hate
In response to the rise in anti-Asian hate incidents during the pandemic, Impact Youth Club (IYC) participated in the Stop Asian Hate gathering in Basking Ridge, New Jersey. Standing alongside community members, our youth volunteers advocated for unity, respect, and inclusion while showing support for those affected by discrimination and violence.
By participating in this community event, IYC encouraged young people to use their voices to promote understanding, stand against prejudice, and foster a more compassionate and inclusive society. The gathering reflected IYC's belief that community service also means standing together in support of equality, dignity, and mutual respect.
Supporting Local Arts: Charity Concert
In 2021, Impact Youth Club (IYC) partnered with a local arts organization to support its fundraising concert, helping ensure the event's success during the community's post-pandemic recovery. Our volunteers contributed their musical talents, event support, and organizational skills, assisting with performances and event operations.
This collaboration not only helped raise funds for the local arts community but also strengthened partnerships between nonprofit organizations. It reflected IYC's continued commitment to using music and volunteer service to enrich communities while supporting the recovery and growth of local cultural organizations.
Continuing Our Commitment to Senior Centers
Although many senior centers remained closed or operated under restrictions in 2021, Impact Youth Club (IYC) continued supporting our senior friends through meaningful outreach. Volunteers created and delivered handmade Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, and Christmas cards, sharing heartfelt messages of encouragement and care. IYC also continued presenting virtual concerts, bringing music, joy, and companionship to seniors who were still unable to safely enjoy in-person visits.
These ongoing efforts ensured that our senior community remained connected and remembered, reflecting IYC's enduring commitment to serving with compassion, creativity, and kindness.
First IYC End-of-Year Picnic Celebration
In June 2021, at the close of our fiscal year, IMPACT Youth Club (IYC) hosted its first End-of-Year Picnic Celebration. The event marked another successful year of volunteer service, leadership, and community impact. Members were recognized with volunteer awards and special acknowledgments for their dedication and service, while families and volunteers enjoyed games, refreshments, and fellowship, strengthening friendships and fostering a stronger sense of community.
More than a year-end gathering, the picnic reflected IYC's resilience and optimism during a challenging time. It celebrated the lasting bonds built through service and friendship while inspiring members to continue making a positive difference in the year ahead.
2020–2021 End-of-Year Celebration
In June 2021, IYC celebrated its annual Graduation Celebration picnic party, marking its first in-person gathering in more than one fiscal year. Our volunteers, graduates, and families reunited after months of virtual activities.
The gathering symbolized hope, resilience, and the strength of the IYC community. Members honored graduating seniors, recognized recipients of the President's Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) and Outstanding Leadership Awards, and celebrated the friendships and dedication that had carried the organization through the challenges of the pandemic.
