Make It Worthy hosts its second annual end-of-school BBQ at The Chittenden’s, celebrating community partnership and student success.

EVERETT, Wash. June 18, 2026. Make It Worthy proudly celebrated its Second Annual End-of-School-Year BBQ at the home of longtime supporters Steve and Julie Chittenden, bringing together students, families, volunteers, and community youth for an evening dedicated to learning, fellowship, and celebration.

Held on June 18, 2026, at the Chittenden residence in Everett, the event marked another successful school year for the nonprofit organization, which is committed to improving literacy, academic achievement, and life skills among underserved students. The celebration welcomed Make It Worthy students, their families, and youth from the surrounding community for an afternoon filled with great food, refreshments, entertainment, and meaningful connections.

One of the highlights of the evening was a captivating performance by a professional yo-yo artist, whose skill and interactive presentation delighted children and adults alike. Families enjoyed the opportunity to relax, celebrate their students' accomplishments, and strengthen relationships with volunteers and staff who have supported them throughout the year.

The annual gathering also served as a reflection of the strong community partnerships that continue to make Make It Worthy's mission possible. Steve and Julie Chittenden have become valued champions of the organization, generously opening their home for the second consecutive year and sponsoring the event to ensure students and their families could enjoy a memorable experience together. Their hospitality and ongoing commitment have created a tradition that celebrates not only academic achievement but also the importance of community support.

Beyond hosting the annual celebration, Steve Chittenden has dedicated more than a year of volunteer service to Make It Worthy. Every Monday, he works directly with students through one-on-one tutoring sessions and small-group reading instruction, helping struggling readers build confidence and strengthen essential literacy skills.

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His dedication has produced measurable results. Staff members have witnessed significant improvements in the reading abilities, confidence, and classroom performance of the students Steve mentors. His patient approach and consistent encouragement have helped many young learners discover that reading can become a source of confidence rather than frustration.

In addition to literacy instruction, Steve teaches financial literacy classes designed to prepare students for future success. His lessons introduce practical concepts such as budgeting, checking and savings accounts, investing, stock trading, and responsible financial decision-making. The classes have generated enthusiasm among students and families, leading Make It Worthy to begin planning the expansion of financial literacy into a formal educational course that will be available to both youth and adults.

"Our goal has always been to prepare students not only for academic success but also for life," Steve said. "Teaching literacy and financial responsibility gives young people tools they can use for years to come. It's incredibly rewarding to watch them grow in confidence and realize their potential." The organization's leadership expressed deep appreciation for the Chittenden family's continued generosity and service.

"Steve and Julie have consistently demonstrated what true community partnership looks like," said the Founder and Executive Director of Make It Worthy. "Their generosity, volunteerism, and commitment to our students continue to create opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. They are helping shape future leaders by investing their time, knowledge, and resources into the lives of young people. We are incredibly grateful for everything they do."

Co-Founder Joelta Seneh echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in addressing educational disparities.

"We sincerely thank Steve and Julie Chittenden for believing in our mission and for opening both their hearts and their home to our students and families," Seneh said. "We need more individuals like them in our communities, people who are willing to invest in young people and create opportunities that can change lives. Their example reminds us that meaningful change begins with people who choose to serve."

Make It Worthy continues to provide literacy intervention, mentoring, leadership development, and educational enrichment programs for students who have been underserved by the traditional education system. Through the dedication of volunteers, community partners, and supporters, the organization is helping bridge educational gaps while empowering students to become confident readers, responsible citizens, and future leaders. As the organization looks toward the upcoming school year, leaders say they remain committed to expanding programs, recruiting additional volunteers, and strengthening partnerships that provide students with the support they deserve.

Community members interested in volunteering, mentoring, teaching specialized classes, or supporting Make It Worthy's mission are encouraged to become involved. Whether through tutoring, financial support, professional expertise, or community partnerships, every contribution helps create lasting opportunities for students facing educational challenges.

The Second Annual End-of-School-Year BBQ was more than a celebration of another successful academic year, it was a reminder that when families, volunteers, and community leaders come together, they create an environment where students can thrive, dreams can grow, and brighter futures become possible.