Paul Wright volunteers on the planning committee of the Onteora Central School District’s Belleayre Bash, which gives graduating seniors a memorable send-off in a safe, drug-free and alcohol-free environment during an overnight graduation party. For three years he has helped organize, facilitate and chaperone the party because he wants to help the students avoid costly mistakes, reach their potential and create a sense of community. His involvement has strengthened his relationship with his children and demonstrates how to be responsible and caring. He plans on staying involved in the event after his son graduates this year. 

For more than five years, George Harris has been volunteering with the Wappingers Falls Youth Football and Cheer organization in all areas, including coaching, designing the team’s logo, representing the organization at school open houses and fundraising. He also takes vacation time to coach winter clinics. Most important, Harris mentors the children by providing structure and support that goes beyond coaching. He provides transportation when needed and attends conferences with the principal for players who are struggling in school. 

Danielle Whiteley has been active in her community since she was a young child, and increased her volunteerism when she was in college. Whiteley’s involvement helped launch Angels of Light, a Millbrook-based nonprofit that gives gifts to children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. The foundation has grown from six families to more than 125 in four years. Whiteley is on the executive board and serves as the vice president. She assists with fundraising, recruits volunteers, organizes and attends community events, and shops, wraps and delivers gifts.

For seven seasons, Brett Arteta has been volunteering with the Wallkill Area Little League. He is a board member, equipment manager, division director and coach of two teams. As a coach, Arteta teaches children the game of baseball and the value of teamwork. As a board member, he helps make decisions to keep the league successful and ensures that each team has updated and safe equipment.

Ron Watkins is a board member of the FRAXA Research Foundation and the head of the Hudson Valley chapter. He joined the nonprofit in 1999, shortly after his son was diagnosed with Fragile X syndrome, a genetic condition that causes intellectual disability, behavioral and learning challenges and various physical characteristics. He helps fundraise and decides which research grants receive funding. The events organized by Watkins and his wife have raised more than $1 million, improved community awareness and provided support for families. His goal is to find a cure and support research.