Young Leader Sets Sites on Washington D.C.

Kristian Catarcio, a sixth-grade student at Middle Township Middle School, is already a class leader. In a recent letter of recommendation, his math teacher, Donna Civera heaped praise on her star pupil: “I have never before met another student with his level of maturity, patience, selflessness, kindness and dependability.”
He is an honors student, who is eager to share his knowledge and his accomplishments with his classmates. In fact, his teacher said he has often given up opportunities he’s earned to share the spotlight with others.
He is someone other students prefer to sit next to, to work with and to have on their team,” Civera said.
His efforts extend beyond the classroom, as well. In his free time, Catarcio volunteers as a Junior Ambassador in New Jersey for the U.S. Army’s Freedom Team program which recognizes the efforts of community residents to support the military. As a member of that team, he attends ceremonies to acknowledge others’ contributions and to encourage citizens to support troops.
And now, the accomplished 12-year-old is setting his sites on the nation’s capitol.
Catarcio has been nominated and accepted to attend the Congressional Youth Leadership Council (CYLC) in Washington D.C. in October 2009. While there, he’ll visit the sites and meet political leaders, but most importantly, he will also have the opportunity to work with other exceptional students from around the country in further developing their skills as communicators, problem solvers and leaders.
This once in a lifetime opportunity doesn’t come cheap, however. The cost of the one-week program is $1,890, plus travel expenses.
“My immediate family has assisted me with the down payment,” Catarcio said, but he’s hoping to raise the rest of the money himself through work and donations.
Those interested in helping this aspiring Cape May County leader to get to Washington D.C. can send donations directly to the program in his name at JNYLC, 1919 Gallows Road, Suite 700, Vienna, VA 22182. Please include his ID#329844-2512012. For more information, call his proud mom, Christina at 609-675-0233.