GAYNOR GIVES BACK
Gaynor Gives Back In order to carry on the Stephen Gaynor School value to raise awareness of our local and global communities, each year Gaynor observes a Day of Service to support a global cause or a local community in need to teach students the importance of giving back. This year, we’ve initiated Gaynor Gives Back, a series of stories shared by members of our community that celebrates the many ways one can give back and the difference it can make not only in one's own life but in others' lives. To kick off this initiative, we reached out to our wonderful alumni community to ask them how and why they continue to give back after leaving Gaynor.
Jackson Potter ’09 The reason I give back and do everything I can to assist and help others is because I've been leant a helping hand so many times in life: whether at Gaynor in regard to my learning differences, UCLA while writing my thesis, or simply in my day-to-day life by family, friends, and fellow New Yorkers. This holiday season I'm proud to have participated in a turkey meal giveaway at work where we were able to give out just over one thousand Thanksgiving meals to New Yorkers in need. Additionally, I'm preparing a toy and coat drive at work for those that may find themselves in need of a little assistance or support. At the end of the day, it's important to do your part, because we live in an uncertain time, and you never know when you may need to turn to someone for help. Also, it feels good to help someone else out!
Daniela Marton ’12 I initiated my own community service project to aid rural schools in Uruguay, South America — a country I consider to be my second home as my mother was born and raised there. Uruguay faces difficulties educating children in rural areas because of the limited educational resources. Knowing that I wanted to help, I identified two schools that were most in need of microscopes, computers, clothes, and toys. Through extensive outreach, networking, and establishing fundraisers and donation centers, I was able to procure the resources needed for the schools. Being able to hand-deliver the supplies to both schools and witnessing their sincere gratitude was the best part. Community service has always been a strong passion of mine. Knowing that I’m able to make a small difference in a person’s life is an incredible concept that I recommend to all.
30 GAYNOR GAZETTE
