Community Corner

Hillsborough Teen's Project Earns Governor's Award

Jennifer Klejst's work with Alzheimers patients recognized with Jefferson Award for Public Service.

After Hillsborough resident Jennifer Klejst, a student at the Stuart Country Day School in Princeton, learned about senior residents at the Morris Hall with Alzheimer's, she recruited some of her classmates to help make the residents' lives a little better.

Jennifer made "memory boxes" with the seniors containing photos, keepsakes and momentos the seniors could use to stay connected to their past. The project—and Jennifer—were recently honored the state's highest recognition for public service, the Students in Action Governor's Jefferson Award.

Jennifer was also one of three New Jersey teens to receive national recognition. Her NJ state Jefferson Award project was elevated for national contention. She won third place in the national Jefferson Youth In Action elder care category for her "Keeping the Memories Alive" project.  The national prizes were announced at the state ceremony in Newark.

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The state award was presented June 1 at a cermony at the Newark Museumm where presenters noted her boxes "served to "humanize" Alzheimer's patients and helped families to reconnect with their loved ones through shared treasures and momentos."

Her project also helped earn her the highest award in Girl Scouting, the Gold Award.

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