Co-Presidents: Sophia Sunwoo and Naomie Pierre
Vice President: Baban Gill
Secretary: Jonah Siegel
Treasurer: Eleanor Nkera, Oprah Nkera
Webmasters: Dan Khoi Nguyen and Cindy Nguyen
Supporting Officers: Eamon Costello
OUR BENEFACTORS
CUMMINGS FOUNDATION GRANT
MEDFORD – Medford’s Center for Citizenship and Social Responsibility (CCSR) has been awarded a 10-year, $350,000 grant from the Cummings Foundation as part of their $25 Million Grant Program, the City of Medford and Medford Public Schools announced this week. This incredibly generous grant will allow the CCSR to continue its mission until 2032. The students, staff, and community are grateful to the Cummings Foundation and family for their continued support.
WHAT WE DO
The primary mission of the CCSR is to develop student leaders/social entrepreneurs who will be positive contributors to society and will work to combat critical social issues such as global warming, addiction, prejudice, racism, pollution, gender bias, poverty, public education and health care. The center provides learning experiences that enhance the students’ empathy and the development of leadership skills. In addition, the CCSR program lessens the chance of students becoming addicted to harmful substances by instilling in them the natural high of helping others. The CCSR is designed to enhance student self-confidence and self-esteem which are critical factors to future success and happiness.
HOW WE GOT HERE
The CCSR has collaborated with The Jonathan M. Tisch College of Citizenship and Public Service, colleges and universities, community groups such as Team Medford, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and civic and public service organizations to help make the world a better place to live. In light of all of the terrible national and worldwide tragedies, we strongly believe teaching children and adolescents how to be empathetic leaders and understand the plight of others are imperative to prevent such tragedies from happening again.
HISTORY
The Center for Citizenship and Social Responsibility (CCSR) was created in 2013. The primary mission of the CCSR is to develop responsible global leaders/entrepreneurs that will be positive contributors to society and will work to combat critical social issues.
By providing project-based learning activities, the CCSR offers a learning experience that enhances: empathy, self-confidence, teamwork, self-esteem, and leadership skills. We believe that incorporating real-life experiences for students to develop and implement projects to help others will positively affect their self-image and understanding of others. Also, The CCSR works with school administration to integrate social-emotional learning, citizenship, resiliency, and social intelligence into the district curriculum and activities.
0
+
Community Projects
0
+
Student Leaders
0
Participating Schools
Medford High School: Marie Nyland and Simon Elias
McGylnn Middle School: Wendy Fields
Andrews Middle School: Meanie North
McGylnn Elementary School: Cindy Griffin, Rebecca Hibben, and Denice Desjardins
Brooks Elementary School: Michael Coates and Lisa Rose
Roberts Elementary School: Ginelle Gulian-MacKenzie
Student Assistant Advisors at MHS: Naomie Pierre and Sophia Sunwoo
Richard Trotta, Director
rtrotta@medford.k12.ma.us
TESTIMONIALS
“The Center for Citizenship and Social Responsibility (CCSR) has been beneficial for the
Medford Public Schools (district-wide). Not only are students gaining a great learning
experience, but the program has been an asset for individuals as well as organizations. The
CCSR program has a truly positive impact on our community, through student’s creativity and
collaborative research; they are an example of social change. It has been wonderful to see
projects come to fruition over the past few years and I look forward to another year of success
for the CCSR program!”
Medford Public Schools (district-wide). Not only are students gaining a great learning
experience, but the program has been an asset for individuals as well as organizations. The
CCSR program has a truly positive impact on our community, through student’s creativity and
collaborative research; they are an example of social change. It has been wonderful to see
projects come to fruition over the past few years and I look forward to another year of success
for the CCSR program!”
Stephanie Muccini Burke – Mayor of Medford Massachusetts
TESTIMONIALS
“CCSR has started a revival in the Medford Public Schools to revolutionize education and instill
a strong desire in all students to personally stretch themselves and go beyond thinking about
their own personal needs. I have had the opportunity to see the student’s excitement and
anticipation of working on individualized and group projects that will make a difference for the
voiceless and the boisterous in the world they live in. CCSR is comprised of a diverse group of
students who are multi-lingual, multi-ethnic and represent all walks of life who come together in
collaboration to make the world a better place. CCSR has provided my students with hope and
the belief that they can change the world…..and they will”
“The Medford Public Schools can prepare them to lead productive and rewarding lives, whether
they pursue college or head right into a vocational or technical career. My goal has always been
to level the playing field for all students, as education is truly the key that opens the doors of
a strong desire in all students to personally stretch themselves and go beyond thinking about
their own personal needs. I have had the opportunity to see the student’s excitement and
anticipation of working on individualized and group projects that will make a difference for the
voiceless and the boisterous in the world they live in. CCSR is comprised of a diverse group of
students who are multi-lingual, multi-ethnic and represent all walks of life who come together in
collaboration to make the world a better place. CCSR has provided my students with hope and
the belief that they can change the world…..and they will”
“The Medford Public Schools can prepare them to lead productive and rewarding lives, whether
they pursue college or head right into a vocational or technical career. My goal has always been
to level the playing field for all students, as education is truly the key that opens the doors of
opportunity for us all.“CCSR empowers our students to look beyond themselves and see how
they can help others. It reaches all students, no matter, race, creed, religion, or sexual
orientation and offers them all a seat at the table”
Dr. Marice Edouard-Vincent – Superintendent of Medford Public Schools
TESTIMONIALS
“I was fortunate to be invited to speak last week at a Symposium on Addiction sponsored by
The Center for Citizenship and Social Responsibility (CCSR) in the Medford Public Schools.
The Center, which is headed by Richard Trotta, serves a vital need for Medford and is the kind
of program that I would hope to see in every community. Congratulations, Rich. You and your
group are doing wonderful work in enriching the lives of students and others.”
The Center for Citizenship and Social Responsibility (CCSR) in the Medford Public Schools.
The Center, which is headed by Richard Trotta, serves a vital need for Medford and is the kind
of program that I would hope to see in every community. Congratulations, Rich. You and your
group are doing wonderful work in enriching the lives of students and others.”
Dr. Robert Brooks – Harvard Medical School and former Director of the Department of
Psychology at McLean Hospital
TESTIMONIALS
Ravindranath Tagore. Nobel Laureate once said: Every child comes with the message that God is not yet discouraged of man “I’m privileged to work with CCSR which is doing seminal work in nurturing young individuals to work together in harmony and to Lead in exemplary ways. Kudos to them for what has already been accomplished and to what magic will undoubtedly unfold in the years to come”
Sanjiv Chopra – Professor of Medicine and former Faculty Dean for Continuing Medical Education at Harvard Medical School, Senior Consultant in Hepatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and author.
TESTIMONIALS
“The CCSR -a program that emphasizes the development of character and which understands character as involving caring for the needs of those who are less fortunate and strengthening the community for all IS A GEM…and something our entire nation needs at this critical moment in our history. As we examine our current leaders, I don’t think they suffer from low academic achievement. What is often in short supply is the empathy and caring that would actually make us stronger. You are not only adding value in Medford but you are contributing to a new generation that hopefully will become the leaders we all need.
What is powerful about how the Center for Citizenship and Social Responsibility operates is that their approach to learning combines lessons in civics, social and emotional learning, and community engagement in a project based framework. Instead of separate initiatives, Rich Trotta and his dedicated teachers have synthesized all the important skills and values, l we want our students to learn in order to be prepared to improve and strengthen the social fabric that is so critical to our collective well-being.
Supporting the efforts of the CCSR is extremely important. Citizenship and Social Responsibility are antidotes to so much of the hate, inequality, and disenfranchisement that plague our nation and our communities. I cannot think of anything that is more essential and critical to the future of our children and our society. “The CCSR is an exemplar of what the future of education should and needs to be…it is about combining skill development with a sense of community. It is about strengthening empathy and caring and connecting those important values to a wider sense of civic responsibility. CCSR provides a context for young men and women to apply the knowledge, skills, and caring to the real world.
Closing comment on the importance of and need for more CCSRs Whether it is climate change or the damage created by inequity, racism, and intolerance, we need from our future graduates not only skilled and thoughtful citizens but ones who care about their local community as well as the global community. The world has gotten a lot smaller in our life time and CCSR provides a pathway to developing the kind of citizens that we all want and need.”
Dr. John D’Auria, University of Pennsylvania – GSE Division of Teaching Learning, and Leadership and former president of Teachers21
TESTIMONIALS
“The Center For Citizenship and Social Responsibility is a much needed and a remarkable effort to get children involved in understanding and acting on important social issues they otherwise may not recognize or care about. Not only will this have a positive impact on the world around us but it will at the same time help raise the level of self-confidence and self-esteem of thousands of children which truly is the foundation by which anyone can achieve and accomplish anything in their lives.”
Dave McGillivray – President, DMSE Sports – race director, philanthropist, motivational speaker
TESTIMONIALS
“The only university-wide college of its kind, Tisch College studies and promotes the civic and political engagement of young people at Tufts University, in our communities, and in our democracy. Community partnerships are the foundation for Tisch College’s community-engaged teaching, research, and practice. We facilitate community partnerships with more than 150 organizations, connecting academic learning to practice, and the Medford Public Schools’ Center for Citizenship and Social Responsibility is a key partner in an important University host community. Working with CSSR, we are able to advance our shared mission to prepare all young people with the skills and knowledge for a life of service, civic engagement and leadership for social change.”
Alan Solomont – Dean, Tisch College of Civic Life, Tufts University
TESTIMONIALS
“As schools are pushed to focus on academics many of the skills that students need to become emotionally strong productive citizens are ignored. The CCSR project by focusing on these humanitarian skills brings this element of education back into the schools. I have witnessed the excitement of these students as they work on projects to help others and the community. They are so proud of their achievements that benefit others. The projects not only foster empathy for others but also build the social-emotional skills for students that are critically important as they enter adulthood. As an educator I have seen many projects brought into the school districts. I can honestly say that the CCSR initiative is one of the most worthwhile of all. My hope is that it continues to grow in types of humanitarian projects and the number of students who participate.”
Beverly Nelson – Former Deputy Superintendent, Medford Public Schools
TESTIMONIALS
“Engagement with CCSR is a privilege and worthy endeavor. Investing in our future through support of programs to educate our youth on citizenship and cooperation with others is paramount. The greatest gift we can extend to our collective futures is to engage youth in outreach and support of others in need. The benefits are self-evident in the joy one feels while extending themselves to the well-being of another. The fruits of these efforts will prosper generations yet to be.”
Thomas M. Walsh – President, The Bridge Center A recreational facility to serve children with both cognitive and physical disabilities.
TESTIMONIALS
“The CCSR has been a fantastic organization in all of the Medford Public Schools l in helping to make the community a better place to go to school and live. This club knows the way, goes the way and shows the way in which we should all act in a civilized society. The CCSR students and advisers are wonderful role models in our community that do so much good. The CCSR has been wonderful in bringing programming at the middle school level to our students to present initiatives that have helped me improve the culture of our building. I look forward to working with the CCSR in many capacities in my new role as principal at the McGlynn Middle School.”
Nicholas Tucci – Principal, McGlynn K-8 School, Medford Massachusetts
TESTIMONIALS
“Every mile of my personal journey was marked by someone who served as a mentor, role model or source of support encouraging me to chase my dreams. I truly believe that all children deserve the same opportunities to realize their own special gifts and goals in life. It’s up to those of us who precede them to help pave their way, so they can make theirs a better world than the one they’ve inherited. I believe the CCSR experience will help our young people do exactly that.”
Bob Socci – Mr. Bob Socci, Broadcaster, New England Patriots
TESTIMONIALS
“The CCSR has changed the landscape of how young people can enact real change in our schools and in our community. Under the leadership of the very dedicated Mr. Michael Skorker, these students have been empowered to make our world a better place. The CCSR uses an ideal model for education: students have a vested interest in their projects and therefore take full ownership and responsibility of the work. When I attended the CCSR fairs during the 2017-2018 school year, I was so very impressed by the breadth and depth of the social issues that the CCSR students are addressing within the Medford community and beyond; mature and poised students spoke passionately to me about myriad issues to which they have dedicated hours of their time. Because of the CCSR, young people at our elementary schools have a safe place to find a buddy, people in our community are more aware of issues of hunger and inequity in education, restorative justice models have begun to be put in place in Medford schools and churches, and that’s just a small sample of the tremendous work they are doing. The CCSR students are an inspiration to all members of the Medford High School community. These young people are changing the world.”
David Ambrose – Teacher at Medford High School
TESTIMONIALS
“I was very impressed by the student leaders who spoke recently at the Medford school board meeting regarding school safety. Rich then explained to me about CCSR. I think these kind of socially aware and responsible young people are clearly who we are seeing make a difference in our communities right now.”
Mary Saladna – WCVD reporter
TESTIMONIALS
“Thank you for your leadership and support! Its leaders like you who have empowered World Unity, Inc. to persevere with its mission and vision. The school district is very fortunate to have a leader like you in their community!”
Sara Ting – President, World Unity Inc.
TESTIMONIALS
“Our collaboration with CCSR has come up a number of times during our visit to Montana. We have had a great time describing the CCSR program, mission and impact to not only Matt and Jess but some of their friends as well. As we describe the different student lead projects that we have learned about it caused Erin and I to reflect on all the wonderful work and impact on both the students and the greater community. Erin, Bonnie, Cameron along with the Campbell’s are so excited to work with CCSR in the years to come. We are excited to see both the immediate and long term impact that our support can provide to providing students with increased opportunities to learn about leadership, diversity, social and global change!”
Elliot Nerland – The Krystle Campbell Foundation
TESTIMONIALS
“Working with the CCSR has been the most meaningful experience of my teaching career. I have the opportunity to work with students who are so passionate about helping others, giving back to the community and making the world a better place. They care deeply about our school, and are constantly thinking outside of the box as to how to make it better. As their advisor, I learn something from them every single day. It is an understatement to say that they have made me a better teacher, advisor, and a better person. I am inspired by the work of our CCSR Student Leaders, and I am so thankful to be a part of this incredible program. It makes me excited to go to school every day to know that we are truly making a difference.”
Michael Skorker – Lead Teacher for SEL, Coordinator of the CCSR and MHS CCSR advisor
TESTIMONIALS
“In the world of education, curriculum and policy are often developed and dictated with little input from the people on the front line. The dire need for social awareness and collaboration is overshadowed by the enormity of high-stakes testing and the push to close achievement gaps. Social values, such as kindness, respect, and responsibility, once expected of home lessons, are easily pushed aside as busy, stressed parents struggle to keep their families merely fed and housed. This is the situation in some districts and, when even our youngest children cannot figure out how to play empathetically with one another, the problem becomes too real and enormous. For me, the CCSR provided me a platform. It validated what I knew inside my heart: that children, our future citizens, at their core want to be good people. They drank up the opportunities set up by CCSR to learn more about our military and veterans. They ran, willingly, down the hall so they wouldn’t miss one moment of our club. Children who avoided each other during the day sat side by side, working together, listening to each other. Letters to soldiers provided a new appreciation for sacrifice and hard work. At another club, hydroponics plants thrived as the students experimented with ways to find alternative methods of sustainable farming. They conversed, kept notes, and logged what went right and hypothesized when things went wrong. They willingly tried methods offered by others. This was learning at its very essence. The CCSR allows me opportunities to expose my students to think collaboratively and critically. In our section of the world of education, the view is becoming brighter and improving every day.”
Donna Laskey – M. Ed., Classroom Teacher, Grade 4, Mentor Coordinator, Medford Public Schools
TESTIMONIALS
“I think what makes the CCSR a truly unique organization is the strong family-like community and the support we give each other in pursuing our different passions to make the world a better place, one step at a time :).”
Emily Tan – MHS Senior & Co-President of the CCSR
TESTIMONIALS
“The Center for Citizenship and Social Responsibility has helped our student community to learn and give back to others. Additionally, they learn empathy and compassion for various cultures and ethnicities. I am so proud to have these students and their teachers as leaders in our Medford Community.”
Diane J. Caldwell – Associate Superintendent, Medford Public Schools
TESTIMONIALS
“The CCSR provides a supportive and welcoming platform and community for student leaders to grow and develop. CCSR is important because youth have a way to contribute to their community through civic engagement and volunteer projects. This program is meaningful to me because of the positive and impactful service projects that have a direct effect in Medford and beyond.”
Sophie Liu – MHS Class of 2019 and former Secretary of the CCSR
TESTIMONIALS
“The Center for Citizenship and Social Responsibility was and is a huge part of my high school experience. It’s hard to believe it’s been two years since I’ve joined, but the projects I’ve implemented, people I’ve worked with, and the changes I’ve seen are incredible to think about! I am so honored and Medford High School is so privileged to have this sort of initiative to make a change in the world! It means everything to me that I am able to give back to the community that has given so much to me!”
Shubhecchha Dhaurali – CCSR Student Leader, Class of 2019
TESTIMONIALS
“The CCSR serves as a great platform that allows students to work collaboratively to change the world on big scales and small. I’ve watched the organization grow from a modest club to one with over 70 members, and everything that has been accomplished can be attributed to the students of the club- who have had the guidance and support from Señor- but mainly it’s the students that are the backbone, which is what makes CCSR so meaningful to me.”
Jenny Lu – MHS Class of 2019 and former CCSR Co-President
TESTIMONIALS
“The CCSR has given me a gift of inspiration. I can mold and shape it into my own present for the world. I have become more aware of the community I have joined and want to help it progress. The things I have learned, the people I have met, and the experience I have gained will allow me to guide others. I am truly thankful for being a part of this amazing group.”
Aniya Crump – CCSR Student Leader, Class of 2021
TESTIMONIALS
“I have been a student leader for the CCSR since my sophomore year and it has truly been a great experience! I had the chance to choose what project I wanted to do to help my community which I think is one of the best parts. The CCSR has helped the community of Medford in so many ways and I am honored to be a part of it!”
Jennifer Dossantos – CCSR Student Leader, Class of 2019
TESTIMONIALS
“In 2019, I was invited to Malden High School to witness the collection of project presentations
exhibited by the students of The Center for Citizenship and Social Responsibility. There I was met by
Program Director, Rich Trotta, to briefly review what I was would witness. As the students set up their
displays and projects, I began to speak with the students and inquire about their interest and goals set
by their team. The student’s dedication, thoughtfulness and commitment to citizenship and social
responsibility was impressive. It definitely made me wish I had been able to participate in this type of
social programming.
exhibited by the students of The Center for Citizenship and Social Responsibility. There I was met by
Program Director, Rich Trotta, to briefly review what I was would witness. As the students set up their
displays and projects, I began to speak with the students and inquire about their interest and goals set
by their team. The student’s dedication, thoughtfulness and commitment to citizenship and social
responsibility was impressive. It definitely made me wish I had been able to participate in this type of
social programming.
As someone who has earned a college degree, law degree and played seven seasons with the New
England Patriots, I have been exposed over the years to understand the need for our young people to
prepare for future leaderships roles. The Center for Citizenship and Social Responsibility does just that.
What better way to begin a true understanding of the many lives and communities the students will
come into contact with throughout their lives.
While the students have participated in over 200 community projects, the program is just getting
started. As the program continues to grow, we need to secure increased funding to ensure more
students have the ability to participate in this meaningful program. I look forward to continuing to
participate with our young men and women that volunteer their time to The Center for Citizenship and
Social Responsibility. I hope you will join our team.”
Garin Veris – Former player on the New England Patriots
TESTIMONIALS
“The CCSR is an exemplar of what the future of education should and needs to be…it is about combining
skill development with a sense of community. It is about strengthening empathy and caring and
connecting those important values to a wider sense of civic responsibility. CCSR provides a context for
young men and women to apply the knowledge, skills, and caring to the real world.
Closing comment on the importance of and need for more CCSRs Whether it is climate change or the
damage created by inequity, racism, and intolerance, we need from our future graduates not only skilled
and thoughtful citizens but ones who care about their local community as well as the global community.
The world has gotten a lot smaller in our life time and CCSR provides a pathway to developing the kind
of citizens that we all want and need.”
John D’Auria
TESTIMONIALS
“The CCSR has meant the world to me over these past two years. Prior to joining there was an
excessive amount of self-reflection of my life that felt more like self-punishment. I was ashamed
to be someone who had nothing to show as their contribution to the world, a crushing feeling,
even as a 15-year-old. When I was introduced to the CCSR I realized there was a path to
improving the world that was not only accessible within my school, but also provided a sense of
community which I craved.
excessive amount of self-reflection of my life that felt more like self-punishment. I was ashamed
to be someone who had nothing to show as their contribution to the world, a crushing feeling,
even as a 15-year-old. When I was introduced to the CCSR I realized there was a path to
improving the world that was not only accessible within my school, but also provided a sense of
community which I craved.
Over my time in my CCSR, I learned that I truly want to help the
world and those in need. I learned that fighting for issues that are important to me provides an
unmatched sense of emotional pride. I learned that I can make a difference now, not necessarily
10 years down the line. Through collaboration with other students, I learned that I am not alone.
There are other students that share my passions for service and improvement.
Emotionally, the CCSR has emphasized and improved what I have come to find as a crucial trait: empathy. You
gain perspective in your service project by seeing what it is you’re improving, which leads to
empathy in the struggles of others. An example is the Medford Slavery Memorial Project. By
commemorating buried slaves in Medford with a marked gravestone memorial and having a
celebratory ceremony, this CCSR project showed me the impact of slavery within our
community and on black culture firsthand. I had a closer view of their struggles through poetry,
speeches, and readings that, had it not been for the CCSR, I may not have experienced. What I’ll
miss most about the CCSR is its reliability and community. Since the moment I joined, I knew
this was a place where anyone is accepted with any idea. You don’t have to prove yourself to
anyone, all you have to do is show that you care about making the world a better place. This
fosters a community of hundreds of students with a basis of kindness and empathy, which is hard
to find anywhere else.”
Joey Ruemenapp – CCSR Co-President, Medford High School Junior, 17 Years Old
TESTIMONIALS
“The CCSR has meant the world to me over these past two years. Prior to joining there was an
excessive amount of self-reflection of my life that felt more like self-punishment. I was ashamed
to be someone who had nothing to show as their contribution to the world, a crushing feeling,
even as a 15-year-old. When I was introduced to the CCSR I realized there was a path to
improving the world that was not only accessible within my school, but also provided a sense of
community which I craved.
excessive amount of self-reflection of my life that felt more like self-punishment. I was ashamed
to be someone who had nothing to show as their contribution to the world, a crushing feeling,
even as a 15-year-old. When I was introduced to the CCSR I realized there was a path to
improving the world that was not only accessible within my school, but also provided a sense of
community which I craved.
Over my time in my CCSR, I learned that I truly want to help the
world and those in need. I learned that fighting for issues that are important to me provides an
unmatched sense of emotional pride. I learned that I can make a difference now, not necessarily
10 years down the line. Through collaboration with other students, I learned that I am not alone.
There are other students that share my passions for service and improvement.
Emotionally, the CCSR has emphasized and improved what I have come to find as a crucial trait: empathy. You
gain perspective in your service project by seeing what it is you’re improving, which leads to
empathy in the struggles of others. An example is the Medford Slavery Memorial Project. By
commemorating buried slaves in Medford with a marked gravestone memorial and having a
celebratory ceremony, this CCSR project showed me the impact of slavery within our
community and on black culture firsthand. I had a closer view of their struggles through poetry,
speeches, and readings that, had it not been for the CCSR, I may not have experienced. What I’ll
miss most about the CCSR is its reliability and community. Since the moment I joined, I knew
this was a place where anyone is accepted with any idea. You don’t have to prove yourself to
anyone, all you have to do is show that you care about making the world a better place. This
fosters a community of hundreds of students with a basis of kindness and empathy, which is hard
to find anywhere else.”
Joey Ruemenapp – CCSR Co-President, Medford High School ’21
TESTIMONIALS
“Through my time in the CCSR, I learned that there are so many people who want to make the
world a better place and who are motivated to take action. We hear a lot of bad things about
people (especially the younger generations) and what I have realized is that kids these days are not lazy, they are not just self-concerned, and they make immense contributions to our community, our society, and our world. I learned that I had the power to make a change, which something I feel a lot of people (including my previous self) think is not possible.
world a better place and who are motivated to take action. We hear a lot of bad things about
people (especially the younger generations) and what I have realized is that kids these days are not lazy, they are not just self-concerned, and they make immense contributions to our community, our society, and our world. I learned that I had the power to make a change, which something I feel a lot of people (including my previous self) think is not possible.
Being a CCSR student leader has shown me that my actions can actually impact people positively and that the
service I do is not just done in vain. The CCSR has made me more aware emotionally. It is easy to get caught up and consumed in your own emotions, magnifying them above all else. The CCSR has not only helped me
understand those emotions through social connection but it also has allowed me to walk in other
people’s shoes. Seeing other people’s struggles helped me put into perspective the importance of
my own, and helped me grow emotionally.
It’s an ineffable feeling. I think the one fear of many people is living their lives and not
contributing anything to the world. When you make the world a better place, even very minorly,
that fear is chipped away. Through your work, you also see its impact and there is nothing better
than seeing something you do actually mean something. I think that is why many kids get
distraught about schoolwork. A lot of schoolwork does not mean anything to the students that
have to do it. However, the work I have done with the CCSR means something to me because I
know I am making a contribution and I know the value of my work is not just in turning it in.
I will miss the opportunity it gave other students and myself, which is why I think the CCSR is
such a great organization. There are a lot of people who genuinely want to do something
impactful but they never do because they do not have a platform to take action. The CCSR is that
platform and I will miss it. I will also miss Mr. Skorker. He is a very rare leader. He gives you
the push to do the work because you know how much he genuinely cares about you.”
Tyler Lam – CCSR Secretary, Medford High ’21
TESTIMONIALS
“Being a CCSR leader, I think it has really taught me how to communicate and work on real life
scenarios in problem solving, but also project managing. Being able to network, but also apply
my classroom skills in real life situations. Going into highschool, I was an extremely socially
awkward and unaware kid. Joining DECA, and CCSR for me are really my true testimonials for
me to grow emotionally. I’ve learned about how others live in certain conditions and how others suffer, family problems and other issues that affect my classmates or acquaintances.
scenarios in problem solving, but also project managing. Being able to network, but also apply
my classroom skills in real life situations. Going into highschool, I was an extremely socially
awkward and unaware kid. Joining DECA, and CCSR for me are really my true testimonials for
me to grow emotionally. I’ve learned about how others live in certain conditions and how others suffer, family problems and other issues that affect my classmates or acquaintances.
Being in CCSR has really helped me understand and be able to have sympathy for others and what they
are going through in their lives. Being in the CCSR has also given me an insight in changing the
world into a better place. My project was to plan an entire carnival for the city of Medford. All of
the proceeds would go to a non-profit organization called Four Diamonds, that would then
distribute the money to pediatric cancer research and funds for patients. I wanted to make this
carnival fun for everyone living in Medford but also to help a greater cause, with the money
profited. As I enter my senior year, CCSR will be one of my most missed clubs. CSSR has really
helped me grow as a person but also given me a chance to make change and show what my
hardwork will pay off to help others. But out of everything, I will truly miss all of my
classmates, friends, and especially my advisors that all have believed in me since day one of
everything I have done, from schoolwork to competitions, and my project.”
David Mei – CCSR Member, Medford High School ’21
TESTIMONIALS
“Through the CCSR, I learned that, contrary to how I used to feel, and how I’m sure many others
still do, young people really can make a difference in this world. Maybe it will just start with the
community, but it’s a start. Students in the past have done amazing, impactful projects and I have
realized I can, and want to, do a project like those.
still do, young people really can make a difference in this world. Maybe it will just start with the
community, but it’s a start. Students in the past have done amazing, impactful projects and I have
realized I can, and want to, do a project like those.
The CCSR doesn’t just benefit our community but also creates an environment among students
where we all support each other in projects and elsewhere. Not only do I myself feel
accomplished with participation in a project, by having all my friends in the group I often feel
pride and joy because of their projects and success. The environment created by the CCSR is all-
around positive and one I would recommend to anyone.
The feeling created by helping others and making the world a better place is really
uncomparable. Helping people has always and will always be a passion of mine and a sense of
fulfillment and happiness comes with it.
I will definitely miss lots of things in the CCSR. I know I’ll really miss the people but maybe what I will miss most is our fearless leader Mr. Michael Skorker. He is one of the most compassionate and generous people I have ever met. He is always trying to make the world better but he also manages to make all CCSR students feel safe and heard and remembered and special.”
Noelani Lasko – CCSR Member, Medford High School ’21
TESTIMONIALS
“One of the biggest things that I have learned about myself from being in the CCSR is how
important being a part of a community is to me. I have always wanted to join an organization
such as the CCSR and service has always been an important role in my life, but I did not realize
how much the positive community that the CCSR has created would impact me every day. The
CCSR has helped me grow emotionally because it has provided me with a support system, and a
group of people that will always be there for me, and it has made my weekdays feel much more
fulfilling.
important being a part of a community is to me. I have always wanted to join an organization
such as the CCSR and service has always been an important role in my life, but I did not realize
how much the positive community that the CCSR has created would impact me every day. The
CCSR has helped me grow emotionally because it has provided me with a support system, and a
group of people that will always be there for me, and it has made my weekdays feel much more
fulfilling.
The CCSR has also helped me to better understand the feelings of others as well, and
to put others before myself. It feels really good to make an impact on my community and to
make the world a better place. When I am working with middle school students, students with
disabilities, or the less fortunate, it feels really good to be able to give back to the community and
to truly have an impact on someone. I also feel that in many of these relationships, with students
of all ages and abilities, they have had an impact on my life as well. This feels really good to
know that I have formed a real relationship with these people, and that we are all learning from
each other, which is an important part of the CCSR. I think the thing that I will miss the most
about the CCSR is the sense of community that is felt in all of the meetings and events. Everyone
always brings a positive attitude and a willingness to make the world a better place to live, and I
think that I will miss that part the most.”
Aidan Barry – CCSR Member, Medford High School ’21
TESTIMONIALS
“From being in the CCSR for the past 3 years, I learned what it means to truly be a member of the
community and what it means to be a good citizen. I learned that although times can be rough,
you can always make things better if you look for the silver lining of things.
community and what it means to be a good citizen. I learned that although times can be rough,
you can always make things better if you look for the silver lining of things.
The CCSR helped me grow emotionally by teaching me how to be sympathetic and caring for
all. Prior to my entrance to the organization, I thought I had a general understanding of caring for
my community, but upon entrance, I realized how much it meant and I find myself wanting to
help more now than ever.
In short, it feels humbling yet enabling to make the world a better place via the CCSR. I want to
be able to do more for this organization, but at the same time it keeps you level headed and
makes you realize how lucky you are to live in such a kind and accepting city with great
opportunities like this. I’ll definitely miss my advisors of the CCSR and I’ll miss the friends I’ve made as a result of my
projects. They all mean so much to me and I wouldn’t be here without them.”
Colin Bailey – CCSR Treasurer, Medford High School ’21
TESTIMONIALS
“From the CCSR, I learned that there are several ways I could help my community without it
having to be massive projects. The CCSR helped me learn that the little things matter. I learned
projects were more enjoyable with others.
having to be massive projects. The CCSR helped me learn that the little things matter. I learned
projects were more enjoyable with others.
CCSR helped me grow emotionally by giving me a way to give back to my community. It’s
allowed me to connect with more people and learn about new things.
Working to make the world a better place to live felt really good. It felt fulfilling helping others,
and I loved being able to make a change in their lives.
What I’ll miss most about CCSR is the community and members. I really like being able to work
on projects with my peers where we are all working towards the same goal.”
Liana Curcio – CCSR Member, Medford High School ’21
