Bohemia, NY, June 6, 2012 - MSG Varsity and Power to Learn, along with Suffolk County Legislature-Deputy Presiding Officer Wayne Horsley, Islip Town Supervisor Tom Croci and Councilwoman Trish Bergin-Weichbrodt, recognized students at Connetquot High School as the Suffolk County Grand-Prize winners for their 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 of their choice.  The school was presented with $5,000 to be donated to Habitat for Humanity. After welcoming remarks from Cablevision and school officials, Deputy Presiding Officer Horsley spoke to students about the importance of community service.  Supervisor Croci and Councilwoman Bergin-Weichbrodt, who are both Connetquot High School alumni, also spoke to attendees about service and the program.  Habitat for Humanity representative Kathy Schafer thanked the students for their efforts and spoke about the organization's mission.

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Connetquot High School became the winner of Charity Champions for Suffolk County by raising more than $12,000 for Habitat for Humanity through numerous fundraising activities, including a 5K Santa Fun Run at which more than 400 runners participated.  Other fundraising activities included entertainment discount coupon book sales, cookie dough sales, and snack sales at school music events/plays, as well as a "Teacher Torture Day" where the students vote, by donating money, on which teachers in the school will be "tortured." 

"Congratulations to every student involved in the Charity Champions program. Thanks to your efforts, Connetquot High School is the Suffolk County grand prize winner and more families will realize their dream of having their own home," said Deputy Presiding Officer Horsley. "I'd also like to commend Cablevision and MSG Varsity for an important program that motivates young people to give back to others."

Supervisor Croci said, "It is heartening to see our young people embrace community service so enthusiastically.  We are extremely proud of you and your accomplishment.  Through programs such as this, Habitat for Humanity is able to provide affordable, decent housing to those who need it most, and through Charity Champions, students are recognized for their hard work and commitment." 

"This is a win-win situation for everyone," said Councilwoman Bergin Weichbrodt.  "The students who participated from Connetquot High School are recognized as true Charity Champions and a worthy charity such as Habitat for Humanity receives funds that will enable them to continue their mission of providing shelter for the homeless and those in need."