Community and Volunteering

I am a Junior at MARS AREA HIGH SCHOOL in Mars PA (about 30 minutes north of the city of Pittsburgh).  I love my community and getting to play soccer and basketball in front of my family and friends.  It’s been awesome getting to be involved in different school and community events. Last year I was accepted into an apprenticeship program at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium where I got to work with animals in their habitats, learn veterinary care and conservation practices.  It was one of my favorite school opportunities.  I also love getting to be involved with clubs and special needs community groups in our community.  I’m so proud of our little town.

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER ~ The past two years I was able to volunteer for one of the most special and inspiring events I’ve ever been to.  My church hosts “A Night to Remember” for anyone in our community who has developmental, physical or mental disabilities.  It’s like a prom, but even better.  I was able to be a “buddy” for one of the guests and it was so much fun.  All of the special needs guests get to pick out dresses and tuxes, get salon pampered, ride in a limo, walk the red carpet and have a special dinner and night of dancing.  Check out this awesome video of the night:   A NIGHT TO REMEMBER

ENRICHMENT CLUB ~ As part of the Enrichment club, we get to work on different things for the community. Last year, I was able to work with a team of students to develop, create and build an escape room for our school and community.  We used several times throughout the year and offered it to the public as part of our MARS NEW YEAR celebration. 

ST. BARNABAS ~I really enjoy volunteering at St.  Barnabas. I love getting groups of students together to go to the memory unit where we play games and bond with the patients.

Game Night at St. Barnabas

STUDENT GOVERNMENT ~ At the High School, I am a class representative for Student Government. I really like being involved in school events and volunteer opportunities.  We get to plan dances and school-wide events like Breakfast with Santa.  We get to help with area nursing homes, clothing drives and community members in need. It’s a great opportunity to represent my class and school.

Hank at my Student Council Breakfast with Santa Event

Student Council at Homecoming Parade

COOKIES FOR A CAUSE ~ Made and sold cookies as a fundraiser to help raise money for veterans at the St. John’s Care Center.

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTION