The wrong done by young teenagers is well-publicized. What is less publicized is the charitable work that many teens do.

Take the Charitable KIDZ. The group, also known as the Young Vincentians of St. Bernard's Church, is made up of children in eighth through 12th grade. The organization, stemming from the much larger St. Vincent de Paul Society, was founded four years ago by Sister Christine Sammons and dedicated parishioners Carol and Ted Blach. Together, the students and adults volunteer to raise money for the less fortunate.

"We tell the kids that we have objectives as a group in order to help the community," said Ted, a 25-year resident of Levittown. "It really helps the kids build character. A lot of them start with us to fulfill hours for community service, but they're all still here once their hours are done. They have fun and learn skills they need to go forward in life."

This past weekend, the organization collected funds in soup pots at Saturday and Sunday masses for their annual "Souper Bowl". Over the course of five services, the Charitable KIDZ raised more than $2,100 to help feed the homeless at the Interfaith Nutrition Network in Hempstead. 

"Vast amounts of money will be spent on Super Bowl events, including betting online and in various venues," said Father Jerry Ringenback. "The soup pots are a humble reminder of our calling to share something of our treasure with those who appreciate even a bowl of soup."

Jamie Bange, a three year veteran with the Charitable KIDZ, finds each experience very rewarding and believes their work wouldn't be possible without the help of the community and St. Bernard's Parish.

"I like to help and I like to make other people smile," said Bange, 17. "Our community is really generous and great at helping us raise money."

Christina Lownie, 14, is a first year participant with the Charitable KIDZ and feels it is the most productive way she can spend her free time.

"I don't really have a lot to do on the weekends and this is a great way to use my time," she explained. "I've made a lot of friends through helping the community and I'm surrounded by good people every time I come here."

Lara Oliva has been with the Charitable KIDZ since its inception. She feels that everyone can help out somehow, and to see smiles on the faces of those in need is an amazing feeling.

"Being in the Charitable KIDZ has taught me that someone's always there," said Oliva, 15. "It makes me feel really lucky when we see the needy and it makes me feel nice to help them. It's all really rewarding."

The generosity from the Charitable KIDZ doesn't stop with football season. Throughout the year, the children host coat drives and visit the local AHRC to work with those developmentally challenged.

"Our Charitable KIDZ are good news for Levittown, loving God and their neighbors," said Sammons. "We applaud them for who they are and what they do."