By TAYLOR BROWN
Senior Reporter
[email protected]
A Mon Valley teen has been named to the prestigious Junior Achievement of Western Pennsylvania’s “18 Under Eighteen” Class of 2024.
Presented by EQT, the class showcases notable achievements of 18 of the region’s “most incredible young people” to bring recognition to their vast talent and potential.
Monongahela resident Pat Weldon, 17, was chosen because of his “kind heart” and dedication to his community through his initiative, “Art for Heart.”
A student at Seton LaSalle Catholic High School, his campaign brought his community together through greeting cards.
Founded by Pat during the COVID-19 pandemic while volunteering for Meals on Wheels, he noticed a need among older residents who were feeling down or lonely.
He began to make handmade cards to deliver to them with their meals.
After he noticed how much the cards made them smile, he recruited his classmates to help expand the effort.
Since it began, Art for Heart has delivered 15,000 cards to 18 facilities in the Pittsburgh area. Cards are collected and donated to hospitals, senior living facilities, monasteries and food banks.
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