Jericho eighth grader Ananya Kavi founded the New York chapter of Hope for Triumph, an organization dedicated to helping those who have cancer.
The chapter now has 18 volunteers from neighboring Long Island schools, including Jericho eighth grader Angel Shah, seventh grader Saanvi Mehta and ninth grader Nimisha Devjani.
Last month, the students organized and hosted a Breast Cancer Pink Fashion Show to fundraise for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The Town of Oyster Bay honored the four students for their hard work at the Oct. 29 town board meeting.
“Thank you, young ladies for all you’ve done,” said Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino.
“You’ve demonstrated love, support and willingness to help those in need,” he said. “And these traits serve as a role model to other students.”
Hope for Triumph is a student-led nonprofit.
“We are so proud of the work of our wonderful students,” said Jericho Superintendent Hank Grishman.
“Such an important part of the Jericho school district is the work that our students do, in so many ways, to support community,” he said.
According to its website, Hope for Triumph is “committed to driving change through compassion, unity and action.”
The nonprofit offers support through advocacy, education and direct assistance, according to its website. Assistance includes babysitting, cleaning services, tutoring and care kits.
There are three chapters of the non-profit in the nation, with 90 total volunteers.
The Breast Cancer Pink Stride Fashion Show was held at the Bethpage Public Library on Sept. 30.
There was an informative session before the show to educate attendees about the disease. The event honored survivors with an award ceremony as well.
Saladino said the four students’ efforts showcase a “very high level of leadership.”
“To be doing this at your age shows wonderful, wonderful traits,” Saladino said.
The nonprofit has provided financial aid to 5 million people, according to its website.
For more information, visit hope4triumph.org.
“We’re so proud of our students today and everyday for all the work they do in the area of volunteerism,” Grishman said.
