Photo: Carl Stevens/WBZ NewsRadio
LYNN, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — St. Mary’s High School in Lynn was honored with a national award for its long-term participation in the Rachel’s Challenge.
Named after Rachel Scott, the first victim of the 1999 Columbine shooting, the mission of the organization is to spread kindness and compassion in everyday life, and that message has resonated with millions of people.
According to the school, St. Mary’s chapter of the Rachel’s Challenge was the first one to be established on the North Shore. The group was founded in 2005 and is celebrating its 20th program anniversary this year.
“I think Rachel’s Challenge is really the best part for every person to participate here at St. Mary’s,” senior Savas Trellopoulos told WBZ NewsRadio. “It is the kindness that brings us all together, and it’s the hope that drives us toward a collective and better future.”
He, along with hundreds of other students, gathered inside the auditorium on Tuesday mornings to create and execute service projects throughout the year, promoting that very message within their school and community.
Some of these projects include marching for life, serving meals for the hungry, and collecting food/clothing drives.
Earlier this month, the national organization awarded the school’s club with a National Service Award for two decades of commitment behind the challenge.
“It’s a place where everyone is coming together to be the best versions of themselves and showcase the kindness and compassion they have in their hearts for other people,” junior Keira Twomey said.
WBZ NewsRadio's Carl Stevens (@CarlWBZ) reports.