North Atlanta High School is home to special achievements in various activities and subjects. Recently, the school has added a new accomplishment to this record as the winner of the Atlanta Falcons Summer of Service Program. NAHS has been recognized for its commitment to community service, having completed the most hours out of all of Atlanta Public Schools this past summer. This success is not only a high honor, but it has contributed to several communities and comes with its own perks as well.
Starting in 2003, the Atlanta Falcons Summer of Service was a way for students to engage in local programs that give back to the community. Every summer, the Falcons partner with a different county to host a competition to see which school dedicates the most time to service. Out of all of APS this year, North Atlanta had the most student service in the summer, with a total of 800 volunteer hours completed. “The Summer of Service is a great way to expose students to community service and volunteering,” said counselor Marc Genwright. “The hope is for them to move forward with their diligence and continue to participate in upcoming opportunities.”
Numerous students participated in the program by taking part in different initiatives over the summer. Many have made a positive impact while developing skills such as leadership, teamwork, and empathy. Junior Mali Piernik spent a month in the summer volunteering at YMCA’s Camp Thunderbird, completing over 200 hours of service. Some of her tasks included cleaning the cafeteria, washing dishes, and teaching campers how to canoe, kayak, and swim. During that month, Piernik was committed to helping the kids and the camp with tasks that needed assistance. “I’m grateful for having been able to contribute to the local community,” said Piernik. “I learned a lot over the summer and I think it’s important for other students to get involved too.”
Serving the community wasn’t the only positive outcome of this honor. As winners of the program, North Atlanta has received a prize package consisting of several perks provided by the Falcons. This reward consists of free entry for students to the Falcons game on 8 October, a pep rally featuring special guests, and Falcons participation in a school-based community service initiative chosen by the school. “It’s inspiring to see people engage in aiding our communities,” said senior Luke McCollough. “We should keep up our reputation of service involvement and set an example for the rest of the student body to follow suit.”
The Atlanta Falcons Summer of Service program has motivated students to make a difference in their environment. Through their participation in countless community projects and providing assistance to those in need, students have not only positively impacted local organizations, but they have grown in character through these experiences. North Atlanta has received a high honor and will showcase this award for many years to come.
