North Bellmore, NY, May 25, 2011 - MSG Varsity and Cablevision's Power to Learn, along with Town of Hempstead Receiver of Taxes Don Clavin, recognized students at W.C. Mepham High School 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.  As Nassau County First Place Winners, the school was presented with $2,500 to be donated to Autism Speaks. At the event, Cablevision's VP of Education Trent Anderson spoke about the Charity Champions program and Receiver of Taxes Clavin discussed the importance of community service.  Teachers Kerry Dennis and Christopher Patten then discussed the school's participation in a wide range of efforts throughout the year to raise awareness of autism and its causes, and raise money through fundraising events.  These included selling Autism Speaks bracelets, participating in the benefit walk, Walk Now for Autism Speaks, and organizing a highly successful Battle of the Classes, which raised $5,035 and was featured on MSG Varsity's "Students Making a Difference."  Student representatives Tara Silverman and Samantha Zuckerman then reflected on how the fundraising events have impacted them individually and the school as a whole.  Rose Ann Walsh, a representative from Autism Speaks, thanked the students for their efforts. 

Video of Event  (01:52 mins)

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Receiver of Taxes Clavin commented, "The student body at W.C. Mepham High School got together for a great cause and demonstrated that volunteerism is alive and well in Nassau County.  These young people participated in fundraising events throughout the year to help improve the lives of those in the community who need it most.  The generous donation from MSG Varsity and Power to Learn, along with the thousands of dollars raised by Mepham High School, will directly benefit individuals with autism and their families."

"I am extremely proud of the students and faculty at Mepham High School, and very appreciative of MSG Varsity and Power to Learn for their efforts on behalf of Autism Speaks," observed Principal Michael Harrington.  "A group like Autism Speaks depends on the generosity of those who participate in fundraising efforts like Walk Now for Autism Speaks or our Battle of the Classes.  This school year will be remembered for the terrific, giving spirit of our students and faculty.  Everyone went above and beyond what was expected of them."