A Pingry School student has received the President’s Volunteer Service Award, established in 2002 to honor individuals whose service positively impacts communities in the nation and inspires those around them to take action.
Motivated by his love for sports, Arjun Sen of Princeton Junction earned the Bronze-level award by volunteering for about 125 hours over 12 months with the Special Olympics, according to information provided by The Pingry School.
“I can’t imagine my life without athletics, and I don’t feel that it is fair for someone less fortunate to not have that opportunity,” Arjun said in the statement. “I wanted to help the athletes experience the same joy—if not more—that I do.”
Arjun has spent nearly three years working with intellectually disabled athletes in sports such as football, soccer, and track and field.
“My work included coaching in training sessions and facilitating tournament events. I have enjoyed every minute with them and I look forward to continuing my time with them,” he said in the statement.
Pingry requires every student in Grades 7-12 to complete 10 hours of community and civic engagement each year, and Arjun is among many dedicated students who go above and beyond.