Kasey Yepez
Myself Third Spirit of New York 2004 Scholarship Winner
William C. Bryant High School
LaGuardia Community College
"In her two years at Bryant, Kasey has distinguished herself as an intelligent and compassionate student. Her teachers are impressed by her participation in class and her willingness to assist her peers. The gift of giving has impacted Kasey, increasing her desire to have a positive effect on her community. She is grounded by her family relationships, particularly a strong sisterly bond. This 'Law & Order' devotee will always be grateful and value the strength of her family connection."
—Linda Lefton, School Counselor
Work, Volunteer, and Extra-Curricular Activities
- Volunteer, Salvation Army Disaster Services
- Coach, St. Sebastian?s Swim Team
Excerpts from Kasey's Essay
Within days of 9/11, I joined The Salvation Army Disaster Services and [The Federal Emergency Management Agency] to offer services to the hundreds of people left without homes and jobs. The main sight was located at the Motor Vehicles office in downtown Manhattan. Throughout the day, I heard heroic stories of how different people either made it out of the buildings or were able to locate nearby shelter. In between hoax bomb threats and Anthrax scares, I assisted in collecting funds to pay the bills of unemployed Americans. We distributed additional food, clothing and other gifts that had been donated. I participated in these services for several weeks after 9/11.
Now that almost three years have passed by, I see how the economy is still suffering from the 9/11 disasters. I feel comfort that I continue to volunteer and assist those affected by the World Trade Center disasters. Through The Salvation Army, I continue to service the unfortunate Americans who, to this day, still struggle on a daily basis, either emotionally, mentally or economically. I am proud to say that I am still part of that team.
The tragic events of 9/11 motivated me not only to volunteer but also to become a mentor. I have offered myself to small children in the St. Sebastian's swim team. Since I was a member of the team two years ago, all the children know me and respect me for my swimming abilities and my team spirit. As the children's coach they enjoy following and learning from me. I hope to be an influence in their lives even if it's just helping them improve their swimming skills. Helping them learn something new everyday makes me feel wonderful.
All these experiences that I have gone through have made me realize that I am only one person. If more people were to come out and help this world, it would be an even greater place. I have learned so much and have met some amazing people that I will always remember and cherish. They have taught me valuable things in life which I hope to carry with me forever. The one thing all this has taught me is to always believe in myself and be happy helping others, while helping myself. Making a difference in people's lives is what motivates me to become a better human being and a well-rounded American.
