FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Alive Teen Center Announces 2026 Mardi Gras Fundraiser Leadership: Jen Mendoza Named Chair and Felipe Rocha Named Co-Chair for Mardi Gras – Teens Take the Lead
Naperville/Aurora/Hanover Park, IL — January 1, 2026 — Alive Teen Center, an evidence-based, award-winning nonprofit dedicated to strengthening teen mental health through connection, leadership, and belonging, is proud to announce Jen Mendoza as Chair of its signature fundraiser, Mardi Gras Marching Forward – Teens Take the Lead, with Felipe Rocha serving as Co-Chair.
Alive’s Mardi Gras fundraiser celebrates the organization’s trademarked Teen-Led, Teen-Driven™ model, an approach that empowers teens to shape programs, lead with confidence, and build purpose in a safe, supportive community. Proceeds from the event directly support Alive Teen Center’s free programs and drop-in services for teens ages 11–18 across its teen centers in Naperville, Aurora, and Hanover Park.
“Jen and Felipe bring the kind of leadership and community spirit that perfectly matches the heart of this event,” said Amanda McMillen, Alive Teen Center Executive Director. “Their partnership will help expand awareness and support for the teens who rely on Alive as a place to belong, grow, and thrive.”
As Chair, Jen Mendoza will lead event strategy, sponsorship engagement, and community outreach, working closely with the planning committee to ensure the fundraiser reflects Alive’s mission and the energy of teen leadership. As Co-Chair, Felipe Rocha will support sponsor and community partner engagement, helping to broaden event reach and deepen impact across the region.
“Serving as Mardi Gras Chair alongside Felipe Rocha as Co-Chair is both an honor and a full-circle moment for me. I have supported Alive Teen Center since the opening of its Aurora location and have witnessed the powerful role it plays in creating safe, inclusive spaces for teens. As a mother of three whose children receive support and resources through Alive, I feel privileged to now sit on the Executive Board and contribute to advancing a mission that strengthens youth and families throughout our community,” said Jen Mendoza.
Alive Teen Center provides preventative mental health support through free, teen-led programming, creating space for connection before challenges escalate into crisis. Through drop-in hours, leadership development, tutoring, mentorship, and enrichment opportunities, Alive helps teens feel seen, supported, and valued.
Mardi Gras Marching Forward – Teens Take the Lead will be held on April 24, 2026 at Naperville Marriot from 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM. Sponsorship opportunities are available and tickets will go on sale February 16. Community members and businesses interested in supporting Mardi Gras Marching Forward- Teens Take the Lead can contact Alive Teen Center at maggie@alivecenter.org or visit alivecenter.org
About Alive Teen Center
Alive Teen Center is an evidence-based, award-winning nonprofit dedicated to strengthening teen mental health through connection, leadership, and belonging. Rooted in its trademarked Teen-Led, Teen-Driven™ model, Alive provides free drop-in and enrichment programming for teens ages 11–18 at teen centers in Naperville, Aurora, and Hanover Park, helping young people build confidence, resilience, and purpose.
Media Contact:
Maggie Weiterman
Director of Marketing & Development, Alive Teen Center
630.778.6093 maggie@alivecenter.org
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