In a remarkable display of community leadership, the UWBA is proud to spotlight the achievements of its United Way Student Ambassador Program. The initiative, led by BAHS Guidance Counselor, Jason Blatchley, and UWBA Executive Director, Sarah Lonzi, is not only transforming the lives of over 35 engaged students but is also changing the narrative of community involvement.

Under the guidance of Blatchley, BAHS has witnessed an unprecedented surge in community participation of students since the launch of the United Way Student Ambassador Program over 10 years ago. “The United Way Student Ambassador Program is more than just a school initiative; it’s a movement that empowers our students to become advocates for positive change. We’re witnessing the transformation of ordinary students into extraordinary community leaders,” says Lonzi.

As part of the ongoing program, students have undertaken a diverse array of projects, ranging from helping with food distributions, winter hat and glove drives, volunteering at the UWBA Soup Lunch and business blitz and most recently helping with UWBA Christmas parade hot chocolate sales and nonprofit day field trip. Their hands-on experiences are fostering a deep understanding of the multifaceted needs within our local community.

“I became involved with the program because I wanted to be able to give back and help others. In becoming a part of the ambassador program, I have learned more about the community as a whole and the positive impact helping others can make,” shares Kali O’Neil, a participant in the United Way Student Ambassador Program.

Now, adding an exciting element to their community efforts, the students have launched the “Penny Wars” fundraiser, set to run until December 20th. The competition encourages students to donate spare change and, of course, pennies, in collection bins located within their Leader in Me classrooms. The funds raised will directly support the United Way’s Annual Campaign with the winning classroom receiving a pizza party sponsored by Pizza Napoli.

Sophie Cornelius, a fellow ambassador, remarked, “The Student Ambassador program through the United Way has so many amazing opportunities. The most recent fundraiser we are doing is the Penny Wars throughout the high school. This helps to raise money for the UWBA while also encouraging friendly competition between classrooms. I love being involved in the Student Ambassador program because I get to give back to my community!”

As we approach the holiday season, the Penny Wars fundraiser serves as a reminder of the collective power we have to make a positive impact. The United Way Student Ambassador Program continues to exemplify that community involvement is not just an extracurricular activity but a way of life for these dedicated students.