Number of Participants: 60
Hours Donated: 10
Value of Time Served: $20,874
Event Type: Civic & Community
Activity: Club
School: Patchogue-Medford High School
Date: February 9, 2026
Location:
Patchogue-Medford High School
Buffalo Avenue, Medford
NY
About:
Student-athletes from the Patchogue-Medford Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) showed how simple acts of kindness can make a meaningful impact by organizing a virtual Valentine’s card drive to support patients at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
As part of the February initiative, teammates and coaches across the Patchogue-Medford athletic community were encouraged to take a few minutes to create uplifting digital Valentine’s cards online. The easy and accessible format allowed students to give back quickly while still delivering heartfelt messages of encouragement to children undergoing treatment.
To build excitement and participation, SAAC leaders invited student-athletes to screenshot their completed cards and share them on social media, tagging the SAAC account. Each submission also contributed to team recognition through a “Raider Points” incentive system, fostering friendly competition and school spirit while promoting service.
The project highlighted the leadership and compassion of Patchogue-Medford student-athletes, who used their platform to support an important cause beyond their local community. By spreading positivity and raising awareness, they demonstrated how teamwork and community engagement can extend far beyond the playing field.
Initiatives like this reflect the growing commitment among student-athletes to lead through service, showing that even small gestures — like sending a message of hope — can create lasting connections and meaningful impact.
