Three Gates Chili students were recently recognized for stepping up and helping others. Brennan C., Luke C., and Grayson W. received Do the Right Thing Awards during a ceremony on May 7. 

Brothers Brennan, a 10th grader at Gates Chili High School, and Luke, a sixth grader at Gates Chili Middle School, were honored for jumping into action during a medical emergency at church. In December, Luke was serving as an altar server during Sunday Mass when another server fainted. Using the CPR and first aid training he learned through the Gates Chili Fire District’s Junior Academy, Luke stayed calm and cared for the server until help arrived. Brennan, who was attending the service, quickly stepped in to take over altar server duties. Their actions and maturity during the incident impressed community risk reduction specialist Kalliopi Lang, who nominated the brothers for the award. 

Grayson, a kindergartener at Walt Disney Elementary, was recognized for helping raise funds for an inclusive playground at Imagination Childcare Academy in Gates. To prepare for a walk-a-thon fundraiser in June, he organized practice walks around his neighborhood to build endurance. Through the walk and additional fundraising efforts, Grayson has helped raise more than $1,500 for the project, even donating money from his own piggy bank and encouraging others to support the cause. He was nominated by Gates Town Board member Andrew Loughlin.

The students were joined at the ceremony by their families, as well as Superintendent Dr. Mitchell Ball, GCMS Principal Dr. Daniel Zdanowski and Board of Education member Robert Long.