Gen U SLO

Learn About Our Cause

Growing, Thriving, and Giving Back: The Heart of Our Mission

In Pismo Beach, San Luis Obispo, three teens—William Finn, Zane, and Riley—set out on a journey to earn the Congressional Award. Along the way, their efforts sparked a wave of inspiration that extended beyond their hometowns. They brought Generations U SLO to Incline Village, Nevada, where Grayson and Stella joined as enthusiastic young founders. These fast-forming connections reflect the synergy at the heart of their mission—a shared drive to use their skills to help others.

Their journey has taken them from kayaking adventures to raising funds through yard sales and dedicating countless hours to community service. Nearly every week, you’ll find the Gen U team volunteering at the organic farm in SLO or working on the ski mountain in Incline Village--balancing their volunteer and work commitments with swim practice, tennis, waterpolo, academics, and the complexities of teenage life.

Latest Updates

Skiing With A Smile (and a tutu)!

Hi, I'm Stella, a thirteen-year-old young Gen-U founder (Nevada branch), and a full-time Diamond Peek freeride athlete. I competed with...

Stella Steele

Mar 232 min read

Watching a Teammate Grow: More Than Just Swimming (Shout out to Finn!)

There’s something incredible about watching a teammate set a goal and chase it down, stroke by stroke. Swimming can feel like such an...

Riley

Mar 172 min read

Shout-Out to Zane: Crushing It in Mock Trial

Big congrats to my friend Zane for his huge win at this year’s Judkins Middle School Mock Trial competition.

William Finn

Mar 161 min read

Upcoming Events

Our Impactful Causes

Making a Difference Together

Seeds of Sustainability: Affordable Organic Food for All

Seeds of Sustainability is an initiative rooted in environmental stewardship and community empowerment. Through the farm project on California’s Central Coast, teens provide essential labor that reduces production costs for the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program.

Bridging Generations: Building Connections Across Ages

Bridging Generations is an initiative dedicated to fostering meaningful connections between youth, seniors, and children in the community. Through intergenerational activities, this program promotes social inclusion, emotional well-being, and mutual learning, enriching the lives of participants of all ages.

Gen U PAWS

Meet the Gen U Team

We’re a group of teens brought together by a shared purpose: to give back to the community that has shaped us. With the skills we’ve gained from our teachers, coaches, mentors, and families, we’re working to build a stronger, more connected community—and having a great adventure along the way.

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The Water Polo Strategist and Future Healer

Riley

Riley is an exceptional water polo player and a cornerstone of her high school varsity team. She balances her athletic commitments with academic excellence, often tutoring her peers and supporting friends in need. With unmatched drive and focus, Riley is pursuing her dream of becoming a doctor, blending her love for teamwork with a passion for healing. As the group’s organizer and communicator, she ensures every detail is thoughtfully managed—just like the final polish on this website!

The Fearless Flyer and Steady Anchor

William Finn

Finn, a varsity swimmer since his freshman year, dominates the butterfly stroke with grit and determination. His adventurous spirit extends to the skies, where he’s training to be a commercial pilot, having flown a plane before driving a car. Whether farming, leading expeditions, or tackling challenges head-on, Finn is the group’s steady anchor, always ready to dive in and keep things grounded.

The Tech Wizard

Zane

Zane is the team’s tech guru, recently building a computer from scratch. In addition to his knack for technology, he balances water polo, swimming, and mock trial. Whether it’s troubleshooting IT issues or brainstorming solutions, Zane is the group’s reliable problem solver and innovator.

The Scholar Athlete

Grayson

Grayson thrives both in academics and on the slopes, excelling at Stanford Online High School and training as a ski patrol. With entrepreneurial aspirations and a gift for connecting with people, Grayson combines a sharp business mind with a genuine, compassionate heart.

Creative Trailblazer

Stella

Stella is a dynamic seventh grader with a gift for blending artistic creativity and organizational expertise. A natural leader both in the classroom and beyond, she excels at planning and managing projects with precision and a unique artistic flair. Whether she’s crafting baked goods, designing thoughtful gifts, or coordinating social media campaigns, Stella’s social savvy and ability to inspire others make her a standout.