EAST ORANGE, N.J. (PIX11) — A 17-year-old from East Orange, New Jersey, is using her talents to connect with older residents in her community.
Jalessa Illery is the creator of Beautified Seniors, a new program coming to the East Orange Senior Center. It will teach the art of wig-making and styling to older adults.
“This is my passion,” said Illery. “I feel like nobody really targets the senior age group, so that’s what I want to do.”
Illery has been doing hair since 2019. Her program will teach older people how to sew and style their own wigs.
“I’m gonna feel beautiful,” said Virginia Magee, an older adult. “I’m so glad she’s taking the time to help us out.”
“I just can’t stop thanking you for bringing your program to us,” Dorothy Cole-Young said to Illery.
“It’s our hope that our seniors will improve their hand skills, their motor skills, hand-eye coordination,” said Penny Corum of the East Orange Senior Center.
The program is powered by the East Orange Mayor’s Office of Employment and Training, which works to help young entrepreneurs like Illery.