Vend-a-Friend is a gift vending machine where participants are offered a gift of handmade art by using the machine. When the machine is engaged, a sound component is activated sharing a message, one of a variety of messages created by the teens working to promote positivity, advice, and encouragement. This project was designed and created together with Kepner Middle School Students in aim to empower young people and give them a voice. Since the project, the school has been closed.