Who We Are

JOY is made up of teenagers who are looking to make a positive change in their communities. We come from different cultural backgrounds which help us understand other youth in our communities, and how we feel as minorities, in a rural setting that can be so isolated. At the beginning of every year, we pick three committees for three main topics, one of which is usually farmworkers’ rights. For example, JOY chose racism in local institutions, racial profiling, and farmworker rights last year. These issues are important to us because we want migrant workers and their children to have a voice and feel part of the community. With these places to turn to, people will have the courage to stand up for their beliefs to advance society towards a better future. We strive for justice through performing arts in order to create systemic change. Performing arts encompasses everything from theater and spoken word to music.
(Download Brochure Here)

What We Do

  • Meet every Friday from 6-8:30 pm (Dinner is provided!)
  • Write and perform plays, such as a Theater of the Oppressed play focusing on Racism and Farmworker Rights we present each year at the Harvesting Justice Symposium in Rochester
  • Participate in an end-of--year educational, fun trip
  • Tour colleges, such as SUNY Brockport and Hobart and William Smith Colleges, and learn about the college application process
  • Host film screenings, such as Precious Knowledge (on modern Civil Rights) and After I Pick The Fruit: The Lives of Farmworker Women
  • Host fundraisers to support important causes

    • In the News

    Finger Lakes Times 2018: Healing Hurts through Theater
    WEOS Finger Lakes Public Radio 2017: High School Student Theatre Project Confronts Prejudice

    Join us!

    Currently, we have members from Sodus, Marion, Newark, and Clyde. Teens age 13-17 in the surrounding area can apply to join. Please contact Wilmer to request more information. (Download Brochure Here)

    There are also opportunities to help JOY by offering, rides, food, and educational opportunities. Contact Gabriela to discuss.