Bergen Academy Students Initiate Global Charity Efforts

By Edward Leary, Creative Editor

Translation and Compilation by Eunju Baek, Education Reporter

Photo Credits: Sarah Ryu, Bella Hwang, Vivian Rong, Vivian Jou

Bergen Academy's International Service Club, JTS_BCA

Join Together Society (JTS) is an international relief organization targeting hunger, disease, and illiteracy. Its slogan emphasizes that the hungry should eat, the sick should be treated, and children should learn on time. Bergen Academy (BCA) in New Jersey hosts the JTS_BCA student club, established in fall 2014, aligning with the ideals of JTS. These students, born when Mom & I was founded, dedicate themselves to this noble cause. To mark the publication's 17th anniversary, we proudly share their inspiring story.

About Join Together Society

Founded in 1991 by Venerable Pomnyun Sunim during a pilgrimage in India, JTS is a private organization with special consultative status at the United Nations. It unites those who aim to help neighbors in need, transcending race, religion, ethnicity, gender, ideology, and beliefs. The group, headquartered in South Korea, actively supports relief efforts worldwide.

The Founding of JTS_BCA

Bella Hwang, a business major at BCA, explains, "We created the JTS_BCA club to aid those in need globally. Open to all regardless of religion, race, or gender, I was inspired by my mother's long-time support of JTS. Hearing stories of children in need in the Third World motivated me, but I was unsure how to help. Lacking financial resources myself (laughs), the idea to start a student club emerged in fall 2014. With friends, we gained approval from JTS and our school to begin active contributions."

Vivian Jou adds insights about the school, "BCA is a specialized institution run by Bergen County, allowing students to select majors upon entry. It's competitive, yet offers autonomy. Students can create clubs and host events like bake sales and movie nights."

Sarah Ryu, co-founder, describes their activities, "We prepared English flyers and promotional materials to raise awareness about situations in India, the Philippines, and other regions. Fundraising included baking and selling cookies and candies. We also sent knitted scarves, hats, and gloves to students at Sujata Academy in India."

Balancing Academics and Club Activities

Vivian Rong, a 10th grader, shares, "With fewer school assignments than seniors, I don't find activities burdensome. I eagerly anticipate club sessions, utilizing time productively with friends."

Bella notes challenges, "As club president, managing weekly meetings and organizing events can be demanding, occasionally affecting studies. Yet, it's manageable."

Addressing leadership challenges, she adds, "Events like supermarket campaigns required significant preparation—from obtaining permissions to creating promotional materials."

Sarah reflects, "Public fundraising was intimidating initially, as most members aren't extroverts. Nonetheless, shared goals helped us overcome these barriers and enjoy campaigns collectively."

Vivian Jou highlights, "Balancing diverse opinions required passionate discussions, given our shared enthusiasm for aiding others."

Student Profiles

Vivian Jou  
Business Major (11th grade)  
Enjoys reading and tennis, involved in creative and business clubs. Quote: "Preparing for fundraisers with friends was incredibly fun."

Bella Hwang  
Business Major (1st grade)  
Plays piano and loves music, active in the art club. Lives with parents and cat. Quote: "Volunteering benefits everyone. I plan to continue in college."

Sarah Ryu  
Visual Arts Major (11th grade)  
Guitar player, enjoys animated films. Part of creative and art clubs, lives with family and dog. Quote: "Hope our activities inspire significant change."

Vivian Rong  
Visual Arts Major (10th grade)  
Sings with guitar accompaniment. Participates in choir and running club. Youngest sibling. Quote: "Enjoyable Saturdays make learning and friendships enriching."

Conclusion

Reflecting on club experiences, the students appreciate the maturity and happiness these activities bring. Their bright smiles reflect this joy and dedication.

Vivian Rong: Experiences have been enriching, forming valuable friendships.

Vivian Jou: Baking for fundraisers was a thrilling challenge, mastering skills in the process.

Bella: Christmas events gained great response, with activities benefiting everyone involved. Volunteering's mutual joy is worth continuing into college.

Sarah: Today's interview felt like a special experience, thanks to the welcoming staff. I hope our actions inspire impactful changes.

Mom & I