Wantagh High School senior James DiCerbo describes helping others as his purpose. His extensive community service efforts recently earned him a $5,000 scholarship from the New York Islanders.

 

James was one of only five high school seniors from the Metropolitan area to receive a Community Leadership Scholarship from the Islanders Children’s Foundation in recognition of hard work, perseverance, leadership and community involvement. In the application process, James detailed community service projects he completed as well as his ambitions for the future.

 

As president of Future Business Leaders of America this year, James coordinated a trip to Parkview Care and Rehabilitation Center in Massapequa during the holiday season. Students played bingo with seniors in addition to serving them coffee and desserts over the few hours they spent together. 

 

Last year, James was one of the leaders for Warriors for a Cure, which raised $118,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. He remains active with the group this year as a member of the leadership committee and also spoke at an event at the Long Island Children’s Museum to share his experience and provide guidance on fundraising ideas. 

With the high school’s Junior Chamber of Commerce, James volunteered at the Wantagh Historical Society’s Winter Wonderland. He helps plan fundraisers, spirit days and other events as a member of student government. In September, he was a student volunteer at check-in for the Wantagh Warrior 9/11 Memorial 5K, providing race participants with their shirts, bibs and goodie bags. 

 

James will attend Fairfield University in the fall to major in accounting. He chose the school because of its strong business education and numerous opportunities to get involved in community service projects. 

 

“I like helping other people,” James said. “It’s a form of humility. You’re able to take a step back and see the struggles of others. When I focus on other people, I see my life as having more meaning. Helping others is how I fulfill myself the best, and it’s rewarding to know I’m making the world a better place.”

 

Principal Dr. Paul Guzzone said he first saw James in action as a sophomore, when he volunteered with Project Thank A Cop. James assisted at a gathering place for police officers who came for the services of slain police officer Jonathan Diller. 

 

“Since then, James has just been everywhere,” Dr. Guzzone said. “It’s really a drive of his to help others and something that sets him apart from a lot of people. I feel really lucky to have him as part of our school community.”