All participating students were recognized by the Interfaith Council with the presentation of certificates marking their submission of essays on this critical topic. Photo Courtesy of the Interfaith Council
The Interfaith Council of Southwest Queens held its presentation for the Brotherhood/Sisterhood Essay Contest this weekend eighteen 7th and 8th grade students received awards for their essays. This year’s theme was “Hurricane Sandy: Response to a Crisis.” Below are excerpts from the first place essays from the 6 participating schools:
Stephen Jagassar
Grade 8, America’s School of Heroes, MS 137Q
“This experience taught us all a few things. We must be prepared for any situation, so that we know how to react and how to stay safe.”
Nicole Magliulo
Rockwood Park Middle School PS/MS 207Q
“Family and friends throughout the community donated their time to help at the center even though they were devastated as well.”
Rosa Acevedo
Divine Mercy Catholic Academy
“Hopefully we will use the lessons we have learned from hurricane Sandy to help our society get through whatever crisis that comes up in the future.”
Caroline Jaipaul
Grade 8-2, Our Lady of Perpetual Help School
“However, in the midst of the dark days that succeeded the storm, an inspiring light shone brightly in the form of volunteers, donors, and countless neighbors joining together to be there for their communities.”
Joseph DeRicco
Grade 7, Saint Helen School
“I am happy that I am young enough to experience the hurricane, it made me want to help others in case this should happen again.”
Krystina Storey
Walter Ward School PS/MS 232Q
“As three hundred volunteers worked together to help members of the community with the worst damage, a bond of brotherhood formed.”
The awards were presented Monday evening at Christ Lutheran Parish Center in Ozone Park by Interfaith Council of SW Queens Board Members.
