Essay writers have been selected as the top three placewinners in the third annual “Giving Smiles” program, an opportunity for children and teens to be recognized for their charitable experiences.
In February, which is National Children’s Dental Health Month, children in kindergarten through 12th grade could submit a 500-word essay that described their charitable involvement. After review by a committee of educators, three essays and prizes were selected:
• 1st place: Kelly Bocippio (Hillsborough’s Auten Road Intermediate School, 6th grade). $1,000 donation to St. Judes research hospital and complimentary orthodontic treatment;
• 2nd place: Annie Ryan (Auten Road, 5th grade), $750 donation to Camp Quality for children with cancer;
• 3rd place: Amanda Myers (Manville’s Christ the King School, 8th grade). $500 donation to St. Jude’s.
A reception was held June 7 for the winners.
Margaret VonSchilling, one of the judges and a teacher in Montgomery school district, praised the students for their altruism. She also charged them to get others involved in community service and volunteering.
Hillsborough dentist Dr. Laurene Wolf said the program was established to recognize young people who are giving back to the community. The essays discussed large-scale projects and small acts of kindness and charity. The common thread was that they all are making a difference in the lives of individuals and in the community. A main goal is to inspire others to get involved and give back, as these young people have done.
Dr. Wolf is the past president of the Central New Jersey Dental Societyand a diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontists.