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JJCR Softball came together with Fox Lane and North Salem for a special “For Brooke” game—a meaningful tribute to a young athlete whose courage, resilience, and spirit continue to inspire. From the first pitch, it was clear this event was about more than softball; it was about community, love, and remembering Brooke.

Brooke’s battle during her high school years showed extraordinary strength. Though cancer ultimately took her life, her “Never Give Up” attitude lives on. JJCR honored her last summer with a youth game, and this year’s tribute continued that legacy.

Players took the field wearing shirts that read “Never Give Up,” a powerful message that was more than a slogan—it was how Brooke lived.

Before the game, an announcement written by Brooke’s mother was read aloud:

“Thank you to everyone here that supported Brooke during her fight. Brooke felt the love from everyone on both of these teams here today, and we are grateful and appreciative for all that you did for her and us. Today, as you play and remember Brooke’s spirit, remember to ‘Never Give Up’ like your shirts say. But remember—it’s not just a slogan, it’s how she lived and how we honor her. Thank you for loving our girl and for still being part of her team.”

This day was a powerful reminder of what it means to be part of a team—on and off the field.

Photo caption: Southampton Intermediate School students participated in a run against hunger at their school. In addition to taking part in the fun run, the students also engaged in a variety of carnival games and bonding activities. They raised a total of $10,000 through pledges. The funds will be donated for treatment of a staff member’s son who was diagnosed with leukemia. 

 

Photo courtesy of the Southampton Union Free School District

Photo caption: The magic of reading will continue in under-resourced communities thanks to members of the Bellport High School English Honor Society. The group recently held a successful book drive to support the nonprofit Book Fairies, which collects and redistributes on Long Island, New York City and the tri-state area. The students collected and donated a total of 363 books at all reading levels.

 

Photo courtesy of the South Country Central School District

Kindhearted kindergartners from Mineola’s Meadow Drive School combined their creativity and compassion in a fundraising project that raised $565 for the Children’s Medical Fund at Cohen Children’s Medical Center. 

The kindergarten team and learners designed bright and colorful “Smile Bracelets,” which were sold to their families and Meadow Drive staff. To help raise awareness, each class also created a commercial and advertising poster using the motto “kids helping kids!” 

At the learners’ request, the donation to the Children’s Medical Fund will be earmarked for the Child Life Program, which aims to make the hospital experience less stressful and scary and more fun for children and their families.

 

Photo caption: Meadow Drive kindergarteners and their teachers celebrate raising $565 for the Children’s Medical Fund at Cohen Children’s Medical Center with the “Smile Bracelets” project.

 

Photo courtesy of Mineola Public Schools

Members of Lakeside School’s Student Council and John F. Kennedy High School’s Student Government worked together on May 18 to plant flowers and shrubs at the Hewlett House. 

This community center provides resources for individuals with cancer. The Lakeside Student Council pledged $1,000 toward the purchase of plants and shrubs, and Kennedy’s SGA made an additional donation.

“These groups of students and adults united to give a beautiful example of what happens when many people work together to make their community better,” said Josie, a Lakeside Student Council member.

Teacher Soo Becchina serves as the faculty advisor for the Student Council.

“We were thrilled to help refresh this meaningful space, knowing our efforts will help brighten the day for the patients who depend on its services,” Becchina added.

 

Photo caption: Members of Lakeside’s Student Council and John F. Kennedy High School’s Student Government worked together on May 18 to plant flowers and shrubs at the Hewlett House. 

 

Photos courtesy of the Merrick Union Free School District