'Assisteens' Of Capistrano Valley Celebrate 40 Years Of Exemplary Work

SAN CLEMENTE, CA — The "Assisteens" of Capistrano Valley are celebrating 40 years of encouraging philanthropic service and self-improvement to teenage girls across South Orange County.

Founded in 1983, the "Assisteens" mission is to teach teens from 8th grade to 12th grade about giving back to the community around them.

The young people are taught how to participate in philanthropic endeavors, charitable services, volunteering and fundraising, public speaking, organizational business and other practical life skills.

"Assisteens" Liasion and Mom Chair Jennifer Hirchag told Patch that the girl-led volunteer group encourages leadership, responsibility and self-improvement. This year, 68 teenage girls have joined the group and will put in over 2500 hours of service, she said.

"Last month, we had a local pilates/yoga instructor from South County Fitness come and speak about the importance of exercise and meditation for teenagers," Hirchag said. "At every meeting, we have a philanthropy component as well."

Those philanthropy components can include collecting gently-used coats and prom dresses, assembling food baskets or crafting Christmas stockings for active military members.

Residents interested in being a part of the "Assisteens" of Capistrano Valley can join in on an open house for incoming 8th, 9th and 10th graders. The open house will be held April 10 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the San Clemente Presbyterian Church.

Those interested in attending can RSVP by emailing membershipacv@gmail.com.