Connecticut - Bassick High School Students Raise Funds and Awareness for Schools For Africa to Win Grand Prize as Charity Champions
June 10, 2011
Bridgeport, CT, June 10, 2011 - MSG Varsity and Power to Learn, along with Congressman Jim Himes and Mayor Bill Finch, recognized students at Bassick High School as the Grand Prize Winners for their fundraising efforts and participation in Charity Champions, a program developed by Power to Learn that promotes volunteerism and encourages area high schools to raise funds for a charity. The school was presented with $5,000 to be donated to UNICEF (Schools for Africa) and $1,000 for the furtherance of the students' charitable activities. View Slide Show >> At the event, Congressman Himes discussed the importance of community service and Cablevision Vice President of Government Affairs Adam Falk spoke about the Charity Champions program. Principal Alejandro Ortiz introduced Charity Champions advisor Jason Purzycki who discussed the fundraising effort and how it has impacted students individually and as a school. "Young people bring great energy and enthusiasm to things they are passionate about, and this fundraising effort was no exception," noted Congressman Himes. "Today there are so many people throughout the world in need. Dedicating one's time and efforts to help the disadvantaged in Africa, especially children living in extreme poverty, is a tremendous accomplishment. My hat goes off to each of these motivated students. And I commend Cablevision for supporting their charitable outreach through its Charity Champions program." "I'm sure I speak for all of Bridgeport when I tell you how proud I am of your efforts," remarked Mayor Finch. "The young men and women of Bassick High School have demonstrated that individual good deeds and generosity can help people in need half a world away. It is that spirit of caring for which we recognize you today. Congratulations on a successful fundraising campaign and on being named Connecticut's Grand Prize Charity Champions." Principal Ortiz added, "Our students did a terrific job raising funds for such a worthy cause and we are extremely proud of them. The generous donation from MSG Varsity and Power to Learn, along with the money raised by our students, will surely benefit the UNICEF Schools for Africa program."
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