Two Fall River, Somerset students showing you can make a big community impact in your teens

Two local students are showing the world that even as a teen you can make a big difference in the lives of others.

The Veterans Association of Bristol County announced Wednesday that they received more than 450 pounds of non-perishable food items thanks to Abby Prince, a student at Somerset Berkley Regional High School, who chose to support local veterans as part of her senior capstone project.

“Abby reached out to the Somerset Office of Veteran’s Services, where Veteran Services Officer Josh Rancourt recommended the VABC as the recipient of the donations. From there, Abby truly took the initiative and made this food drive a success. Donation bins were placed at Somerset Berkley Regional High School, North and South Elementary Schools, Berkley Middle and Elementary Schools, as well as outside the Veterans Office and at the Somerset Public Library. She also promoted the drive on Facebook and even used cash donations she received to purchase additional food items.

“This project didn’t stop there. Abby also plans to host a pizza party at Clifton, where she will interview veterans as part of her coursework, and will also assist with the Somerset Memorial Day events.”

Also, Fall River Public Schools announced Wednesday that B.M.C. Durfee High School senior Giana Gordon is using her Distributive Education Clubs of America project to raise awareness for a cause that’s close to her heart: Camp Sunshine in Maine.

“Camp Sunshine is a free camp for children with life-threatening medical conditions and their families, bringing families from all over the country to Maine—at no cost—to relax, connect, and just be together. Despite its incredible impact, Giana says the camp isn’t widely known, and she wants to change that.”

“Giana has already volunteered at Camp Sunshine twice—once last summer and again last winter—after learning about it from Durfee students who had previously volunteered there. As a camp counselor, Giana says she was able to form special bonds with campers, building friendships that made the experience even more meaningful.”

“What stood out to me was how inclusive and welcoming everyone was,” Giana shared. “No one was ever left out. Everyone was kind, helpful, and willing to support one another.”

“Through DECA, Giana hopes to raise awareness, grow Camp Sunshine’s social media following, and ultimately take her project all the way to the Massachusetts DECA State Conference. After graduation, Giana says she plans to return to Camp Sunshine to continue volunteering and giving back.”

“Learn more about Camp Sunshine, including their mission, how to volunteer, and ways to donate, by visiting their website and social media pages. You can start volunteering as young as 16 years old, and donations are accepted year-round.”

Camp Sunshine: https://www.campsunshine.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gocampsunshine

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/campsunshine1984

Congratulations to Abby and Giana for making a difference!