For the third month in a row, a Cheektowaga Central student is being recognized by the Youth Engaged in Service (Y.E.S.) program! Ian Lupejkis has been selected as the October 2022 Volunteer of the Month.

For the past year, Ian has been a member of the Y.E.S. program. Since joining last November, he’s consistently been an active volunteer participating in 22 events, contributing over 40 hours of service to the community. Earlier this year, he was recognized for completing the most volunteers hours for the first quarter of 2022.

He has become a staple at the monthly Meals on Wheels activities. The volunteers create seasonal handmade favors that are added to meal trays to make the homebound seniors feel special and brighten their day. With Ian’s precision and attention to detail, his craft projects always turn out perfect!

Ian’s maturity, patience, and dependability, make him an ideal role model for volunteers and participants. Whether it’s Monster Mayhem, Spaghetti with Santa, or BBQ with the Bunny, he’s a leader always willing to pitch in with whatever task needs to be done. During an afternoon craft event at the library, he was the only volunteer who attended. At an activity that typically has at least six other volunteers leading it, he stepped up and lead a smooth, seamless event for all the children participating.

With his charismatic personality, it’s always a pleasure to have Ian assisting at Y.E.S. activities. The program is very fortunate to have him on board.

ABOUT CHEEKTOWAGA Y.E.S.

The Cheektowaga Youth Engaged in Service (Y.E.S.) program gets teens out of the house and meeting new people while making a difference in the community.

Volunteers make crafts with children, cook meals for families at the Grace Guest House, pack groceries at the St. Stephens food pantry, assist with holiday events and more. Not only does Y.E.S. provide service hours required for graduation, it’s an opportunity to make friends, gain leadership skills and provide a sense of accomplishment - plus it’s an impressive addition to college and job applications! For more information, visit www.cheektowagayes.org or call 716-897-7207 ext 6655.