Ordinarily, celebrating a birthday means YOU receive gifts from friends and loved ones. But Richard T. Stank Middle School 7th grader Myles Clement is anything but ordinary. This extraordinary young man decided to turn HIS birthday celebration this year into a call to action. Instead of getting gifts, he launched a challenge to his friends and the extended school community to collect and donate winter clothing to people in need.
And the community answered that call in a big way! When the drive was finished, Myles was able to deliver to the Broome County United Way nearly 200 winter coats, gloves, hats and scarves!
On December 3, when the United Way held its annual holiday celebration, Myles, accompanied by his family, was among the guests of honor as more than 100 volunteers, CEO's, local business leaders and non-profit organizations gathered at Traditions at the Glen. Lori Welch, Executive Director of the United Way of Broome County, shared Myles' inspirational story and then presented him with the Community Spirit Award. WICZ-Fox 40 was there to cover it. The United Way gave Myles a special shout-out on its Facebook page as well.