Samantha Gargiulo was one of nine high school students honored with the 2016 Bridges Founders’ Award. The award is given to high school juniors or seniors who have faithfully supported Bridges’ work and who have proven themselves to be friends to the homeless.
“Samantha is a wonderful, motivated person and it was a pleasure working with her on Teens Tackle Homelessness events and Bridges runs. Her dedication and hard work helped continue our mission of serving individuals living on the streets with food, clothing, and compassion,” said Dan RosenHanst, Director of Operations/Volunteers for Bridges.
Samantha was introduced to the organization through her youth group at First Congregational Church of Westfield and was nominated for the award by Reverend Joy Mounts of FCC. Through Bridges, church members of all ages participate in making and delivering food and water to the homeless throughout the year. Samantha has been a Bridges volunteer since the 7th grade and has been an active part of six mission trips with FCC. Samantha is a graduate of Westfield High School and will be attending Ohio State in the Fall.
Bridges connects the housed and homeless to establish relationships that lead to greater acceptance and understanding, social and economic growth, and wellbeing. For more information, please visit their website at bridgesoutreach.org
First Congregational Church, a member of the United Church of Christ, provides an active program of education, service, and fellowship for children and teens. For additional information, please contact the church office at 908-233-2494 or visit their website at fccofwestfield.org. First Congregational Church is located at 125 Elmer St., Westfield, New Jersey.
(above from l-r) Samantha Gargiulo, recipient of Bridges Founders’ Award, Dan RosenHanst, Director of Operations/Volunteers for Bridges, and Reverend Joy Mounts of FCC.
