The Marine Park Civic Association’s holiday party at the Carmine Carro Community Center on Dec. 16 was a celebration for local leaders — big and small.
State Sen. Marty Golden (R–Bay Ridge) doled out certificates for the young community helpers who volunteer on weekends year-round with the Good Samaritan Saturday club.
A group of 15 youngsters meets weekly to tackle two to three projects per month — such as gardening in the park, distributing treats to locals, and creating holiday decorations for the community. One parent said he thinks the program is a great way for his child to get involved in the life of the neighborhood.
“It is a great opportunity for them to give back to their community, be tied to their community, and be outside of themselves,” said Robert Mineo, whose son Timothy earned a certificate.
After the kids received their certificates, they dined on sandwiches and snacks with members of the civic group. And after the celebration, some of the young volunteers continued their service by cleaning the community center, said one parent.
“They got up and they started helping out the Marine Park Civic helpers clean up,” said Anissa Guariglia, whose son James received a community-service certificate. “They were volunteering as much time as they could.”
