SOUTH BRUNSWICK – South Brunswick police officers teamed up with outstanding young students to recognize them for their hard work in their schools and communities.
The local police unions and school administrators visited Target on Dec. 14 for the third annual Heroes and Helpers event. Each of the students was recognized at a brief ceremony at the store, and then given a gift card for $245.
The youth shopped with their partner police officer for two hours, getting gifts for family and friends.
“The event was a huge success with over 60 people in attendance at the ceremony to recognize the students. These young people distinguished themselves by the actions they take on a daily basis to make a difference,” Sgt. Gene Rickle said in a statement prepared by the South Brunswick Police Department (SBPD).
The program recognized 10 students who were chosen by South Brunswick school officials out of 9,000 students in the district. Some of their outstanding efforts included:
- Promoting autism awareness and helping autistic kids in the classroom and on the playground
- Helping kindergarteners learn to read and volunteering to tutor other students
- Assisting in socializing new students when they transfer to South Brunswick schools and reaching out to shy students in school and on the playground
- Acting as an interpreter for a student who spoke little English
- Working in a soup kitchen and helping with food drives for the needy
- Raising money for the homeless through odd jobs and fundraisers
- Co-founding Hartley’s Legacy, using music to reach out to elderly seniors, victims of unfortunate tragedies and children in need
- Raising money for victims of the Sewol Ferry tragedy in South Korea through benefit concerts
- Raising money for Pencils for Promise, which donates school supplies for kids in need
- Founding the Authors Helping Authors Writing Program which mentors younger students in writing techniques
- Working with other students through COOL (Creating Our Own Leaders) and working with other students through FLY (Finding the Leader in You)
South Brunswick Police Chief Raymond Hayducka thanked Target of South Brunswick, South Brunswick Schools Superintendent Gary McCartney, South Brunswick School District supervisors and administrators, PBA Local 166 and FOP Lodge 51 for funding the event.
“The police unions and school officials realize the importance of recognizing the young people who give us hope for tomorrow. These young people are positive role models in their schools. The officers they teamed up with make a positive difference on a daily basis in South Brunswick and this event will create a long-lasting memory for the officers and students,” Hayducka said.
