Unique Sweet 16 party!

Being in the limelight is not something new to Skyline High school junior Prithvi Addepalli. She is an accomplished and singer who made it to the All State Symphonic Choir (soparano) last year,  we've heard her sing melodious Indian movie songs in the Geetanjali concerts for ASHA, we've seen her in Indian classical Bharatnatyam dance performances. Not just being content with that, Prithvi celebrated her 16th birthday in a refreshing variation of a “traditional” large scale Sweet 16 party. Being a part of numerous service boards and an avid volunteer in the community, she decided to combine her passion to serve those around her, as well as enjoy her special day with her friends. 

With the help of her parents, Prithvi found the organization Youthcare’s Orion Center, a shelter that serves homeless teenagers aged 13-21 in Seattle. A unique aspect of this organization is there outreach program, where volunteers locate children on the streets of Seattle and provide them with simple meals and snacks, as well as basic hygiene supplies and clothes. On average, this group will find around 40 children in need of aid a night. Youthcare’s Orion Center appealed to Prithvi, as its services were directed specifically to people like herself, and thought it would be tremendously rewarding to contribute to this cause.

Hosted at the Plateau Club in Sammamish, Prithvi had a formal dessert Sweet 16 party for 60 of her high school friends. She requested them to, instead of birthday presents, bring non-perishable food items that would be easy to consume and not require a multitude of preparation. Sample items include snack bars, microwaveable meals, pudding cups, granola, and other simple food. As requested, guests brought in food and spend the night dancing, singing, and eating delicious desserts, including a chocolate fountain.  To top it off, Prithvi’s cousins flew in from out of town as surprise for her special day.

Much to her delight, Prithvi’s friends brought a total of 408 pounds of donations for Youthcare’s Orion Center! She was amazed by the generosity and camaraderie of her peers and did not expect such gracious donations. Prithvi anticipates delivering the food as soon as she can, and feels incredibly blessed to be surrounded with caring friends. Moreover, she is happy to have spread the word about this shelter and is hoping to contribute more to their services in the future. Hats of to you Prithvi! We are all very proud of you!