Milford, CT, December 16, 2011 - Power to Learn, along with Senator Gayle Slossberg and Representative Kim Rose, recognized students at Jonathan Law High School for participating in this year's Charity Champions, a program from Power to Learn that promotes volunteerism and encourages area high schools to raise funds for a charity of their choice. At the event, Senator Slossberg and Representative Rose recognized the students for their dedication to the charity and student advisor Michael Hoggatt spoke about the school's involvement with Charity Champions.  As part of their efforts, the students had a variety of fundraisers planned, including a clothing drive, Valentine dance, basketball event and 5K walk/run.  The Beth-El Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to alleviating homelessness and hunger through shelter, support services, advocacy and community education in partnership with the faith-based community and in collaboration with public and private organizations. The school was presented with $1,000 to be donated to the Beth-El Center and also received $500 for the furtherance of the students' charitable activities.  After the check presentations, students challenged a teacher to a chicken nugget eating contest and the school cheerleaders performed a few numbers for the assembly.

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Said Senator Slossberg, "I'd like to thank MSG Varsity and Power to Learn for the Charity Champions program and also these terrific students here today for their commitment to others.  Involvement in such programs provides young people with a greater sense of belonging within their community and helps them realize that they can make a difference in people's lives."

Representative Rose concurred, noting, "All of the students involved in the Charity Champions program are terrific role models for teens today.  It is especially heartwarming at this time of year to see young people coming together to help raise funds for a cause in which they believe."

"I'd like to thank MSG Varsity and Power to Learn for recognizing the efforts of our students," said student advisor Hoggatt.  "Working with our students on a daily basis, I can say firsthand that they are truly dedicated to raising funds for the Beth-El Center and I have no doubt that they will be successful in their efforts."