Number of Participants: 29
Hours Donated: 8
Value of Time Served: $8,071
Event Type: Civic & Community
Activity: Cheerleading
School: John Jay High School
Date: December 16, 2025
Location:
John Jay High School
North Salem Road, Cross River
NY
About:
Service and gratitude are at the heart of the JJ Cheer program, and this holiday season the JV and Varsity cheer teamsonce again showed their commitment to giving back to the community that supports them year-round.
One of the team’s most cherished traditions is its Adopt-A-Family initiative, now ongoing for more than a decade. This year, the teams spent a festive evening at the Poughkeepsie Galleria, shopping for gifts and essentials to fulfill the wish list of their adopted family. From selecting thoughtful presents to planning holiday meals, the athletes worked together to help make another family’s Christmas merry and bright.
In addition to providing gifts, the program also donates Christmas dinner and all the “fixings” for a special holiday breakfast, ensuring families can enjoy meaningful moments together during the season.
The team’s commitment to service extends beyond the holidays. Last week, the cheerleaders kicked off practice by making PB&J sandwiches to donate to HOAM PK, a local nonprofit dedicated to feeding anyone in need throughout the Poughkeepsie community. This hands-on service project reflected the team’s belief that giving back doesn’t have to wait for a special occasion.
Through these efforts, JJ Cheer continues to combine team bonding, gratitude, and compassion, reinforcing the idea that service is an essential part of being a student-athlete. Their dedication to supporting others—both during the holidays and throughout the year—highlights the powerful impact young leaders can make when they choose to give back.
