Syosset Student Recognized for Volunteerism

Congratulations to Syosset High School senior Nicholas Montoro for being awarded the Florence Cohen Memorial Youth Award by the Red Cross of Greater New York. The award is presented to one Long Island Red Cross youth member who exemplifies the true nature of volunteerism.

Nicholas credits his father, Salvatore, for inspiring him to volunteer for the Red Cross, for which he has served since the eighth grade. Together, Nicholas and his father – a past recipient of the Red Cross Leadership Award – have helped numerous families in need, particularly following Superstorm Sandy. Nicholas recalled helping to organize shelters for those who lost their homes, including many who flocked to the Nassau Coliseum just to have a roof over their heads and a warm place to stay.

“That experience really put things into perspective,” said Nicholas, who will be honored at a Red Cross volunteer recognition event in early March. “With the Red Cross, we try to help others in different ways. It’s nice to have the ability to help someone else.”

According to the American Jewish Chronicle, Florence Cohen was an active member of the Red Cross who often assembled care packages to send to troops serving overseas during WWI.

Story by Syntax, Photo courtesy of the Syosset CSD: SHS senior Nicholas Montoro is congratulated by Principal Dr. Giovanni Durante and guidance counselor Jill Goldberg for winning the Florence Cohen Memorial Youth Award, presented by the Red Cross of Greater New York.