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We’re excited to announce the return of our Summer Teen Council! This six-week leadership and service program offers local teens ages 13-18 the opportunity to learn about food insecurity while making a meaningful impact in the community through hands-on service projects.

A select group of students ages 13-18 will participate in weekly sessions that combine education, service, teamwork, and leadership development. Throughout the program, participants will get a behind-the-scenes look at our operations and mission to include:

• Meeting with staff and organizational leaders
• Learning about the challenges of food insecurity in Morris County
• Participating in hands-on service projects, including assisting at our Farmers Market
• Creating a final presentation highlighting the impact of the program on their understanding of food insecurity, community service and nonprofit organizations.

Participants who complete the program receive a certificate recognizing 16 hours of community service.

How to Apply

Students ages 13-18 who live in Morris County and have not previously participated in the Summer Teen Council are encouraged to apply.

Applicants should submit a short essay to cstavraka@mcifp.org explaining why ending food insecurity is an important mission and why they would like to be part of the Summer Teen Council.

Please include:

• Name
• Address
• Grade level
• School

Applications must be submitted by June 22, 2026.

Because space is limited, applicants should be prepared to attend all scheduled program sessions. Program dates and times are listed below.

Selection Process

Applications will be reviewed by IFPN staff. Participants will be selected based on the quality of their essay, demonstrated interest in the program, and ability to commit to the full six-week schedule.

Session Information

Location: The IFPN Main Location – 2 Executive Drive, Morris Plains, NJ

Schedule

• Monday, July 13, 2:00pm to 4:00pm – Welcome and Ice Breaker Activities
• Tuesday, July 21, 2:00pm to 4:30pm – Service and Learning Session One
• Tuesday, July 28, 2:00pm to 4:30pm – Service and Learning Session Two
• Tuesday, August 4, 2:00pm to 4:30pm – Service and Learning Session Three
• Friday, August 14, 9:00am to 12:00pm – Service IFPN Farmers Market
• Tuesday, August 18, 2:00pm to 4:00pm – Presentations and Graduation

Please contact Carol Stavraka at cstavraka@mcifp.org with any questions.

Summer can be one of the most challenging times for families facing food insecurity. With children home from school and no longer receiving school meals, household food budgets are stretched even further. At the same time, many of the groups that regularly host food drives are away on summer break, making donations harder to come by. Your summer food drive can help ensure our neighbors continue to have access to the nutritious food they need all season long.