Prudential Spirit of Community Award/Soap for Hope

I am excited to announce that Nipmuc sophomore Patrick Carey has been honored for his exemplary volunteer service with a state-level Certificate of Excellence from the 2013 Prudential Spirit of Community Awards Program. Presented annually by Prudential Financial in association with the national Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), this award honors young people across America for extraordinary community service activities.

Patrick received his award through his completion of the Soap for Hope program which collected toiletries and personal items for local food pantries. Through his efforts Patrick was able to provide nearly $2,000 worth of donations to support our community.

The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards Program, now in its 18^th year, is one of the largest programs to recognize the achievements of America’s young volunteers. Since the beginning of the program nearly 370,000 applicants have been considered for this honor. Patrick’s accomplishment in being recognized by the Awards Program distinguishes him as placing in the top 10% of applicants from Massachusetts.

NASSP Executive Director JoAnn Bartoletti puts this achievement in context by stating, “Demonstrating civic responsibility through community volunteerism is an important part of life. These honorees practice a lesson we hope all young people, as well as adults, will emulate.”

We are especially proud of Patrick’s accomplishment because he plans to run the Soap for Hope program again this year. Running from March 25 – March 28, Patrick will be collecting toiletries and personal items to be donated to local food pantries. Donation boxes will be located at Nipmuc, Miscoe, the Upton Library, and St. Gabriel's church. Check out the video below for more information about the project.

Congratulations, Patrick!