Gen Z often gets unfairly labeled as screen-obsessed and self-involved, but teens like Eliza Chiles are flipping that narrative on its head — proving that the next generation may be the most community-driven yet.
At just 16 years old, Eliza, a student from Atlantic Highlands, is already making a powerful impact through her volunteer work with HABcore, a nonprofit that provides housing and supportive services for individuals with special needs and those facing homelessness. Her work at HABcore’s Coffey Residence in Red Bank is just one of the many ways she's championing change.
This spring, the Junior League of Monmouth County (JLMC) honored Eliza with the prestigious Woman Making a Difference Award at its Women of Distinction Luncheon. She was joined at the event by HABcore’s Michelle Moore, Site Manager at Coffey Residence, and Marta Joy Quinn, Director of Events & Engagement—two women who have witnessed Eliza’s compassion and commitment firsthand.
A Legacy of Compassion and Service
Eliza’s dedication to service runs deep. A fourth-generation Monmouth County resident, she grew up steeped in the values of empathy and civic engagement passed down by her great-grandparents, Dr. George and Mary Jane Sheehan. Dr. Sheehan—a WWII veteran, cardiologist, bestselling author, and co-founder of Christian Brothers Academy—left a legacy that inspired generations of service in the Sheehan family.
From organizing food drives with a red wagon in elementary school to planting flowers through a secret “Kindness Club,” Eliza’s early years in Atlantic Highlands set the stage for a life of meaningful action. She’s also been involved in causes like Neighbors for Waterfront Preservation and Atlantic Highlands for Equity and Justice, advocating for environmental conservation and social equity in her hometown.
Leading by Example at School and Beyond
Throughout middle and high school, Eliza’s passion for advocacy only grew. She led community-wide initiatives like a local march against racism that drew more than 500 participants and distributed signs promoting inclusion and unity. In school, she has been a standout leader—serving in student government, National Junior Honor Society, and captaining soccer and basketball teams.
Now a junior at Trinity Hall in Tinton Falls, Eliza balances academic excellence with robust leadership and service roles. She chairs the Academic Council, tutors her peers, and participates in the HUMM Institute, a program using collaborative design thinking to address community challenges. She also helped lead the Menstrual Mission, collecting feminine hygiene products for underserved women, and traveled to Peru to support underserved communities in the Sacred Valley.
Making an Impact at HABcore
It was during her sophomore year that Eliza discovered HABcore—and found a cause close to her heart. Volunteering at the Coffey Residence, she connected deeply with residents, helping them organize their spaces, sharing meals, and celebrating holidays together. One highlight: baking and decorating Easter cupcakes and a bunny cake with residents, a joyful moment that underscored the warmth and community HABcore fosters.
Wanting to amplify her impact, Eliza enlisted friends Amelia Appel, Caroline Ferguson, Maeve Bradley and Maeve Devane to organize a Pickleball Social fundraiser. The event raised money and awareness for HABcore and shined a light on the growing homelessness crisis in Monmouth County.
Now, Eliza is turning her passion and analytical mind toward the root causes of housing insecurity—working to gather and analyze local data to help address systemic issues contributing to homelessness in the region.
HABcore is on the front lines of housing insecurity in Monmouth County, thanks in large part to committed volunteers like Eliza and generous supporters across the community. The organization depends on donations, partnerships, and grassroots action to continue its life-changing work to secure permanent, supportive housing for families, individuals with special needs and veterans.
To learn more about how you can get involved, go to www.habcore.org.
