BEDFORD – For their remarkable commitment to volunteerism, a dozen high school students from across New Hampshire have been awarded scholarships by Primary Bank. These individuals have gone above and beyond to make a tangible difference in their communities and schools, embodying the spirit of altruism and compassion.

The Primary Bank Young Hero Scholarship has been a monthly award throughout 2023 that recognizes the outstanding efforts of selfless, committed young New Hampshire residents. Developed to promote volunteerism, this program highlights the remarkable stories of these students who have become shining stars in their communities. The scholarships not only support these students in their educational journey, but also encourage others to engage in acts of kindness and service.

“The actions of these high school students serve as a beacon of hope and a reminder that positive change begins at the local level,” said William Greiner, interim CEO of Primary Bank. “Through their commitment to service, they are setting an example for others to follow and embodying the true spirit of community.”

In recognition of their remarkable achievements, the scholarship recipients will be honored at a special ceremony held at the Manchester Country Club at 180 South River Rd. in Bedford on Dec. 19. The event will bring together community members, educators and family to celebrate the accomplishments of these young leaders.

The scholarship purse of nearly $25,000 is divided into 12 monthly awards of $1,000, a “People’s Choice” award of $2,500 and a “Young Hero of the Year” award of an additional $10,000. These scholars are not only exceptional in their community efforts, but also have managed to maintain outstanding academic records. Their ability to balance their academic responsibilities with their commitment to service underscores their strong work ethic and determination.

The following recipients have all demonstrated an extraordinary level of dedication to their communities, utilizing their talents and passions to create positive change throughout society. These young recipients have worked tirelessly for their causes:

January Hero–Recent Pelham High School graduate Corinne Kelly has been recognized for her work with Operation Care for Troops. She has helped send more than 8,000 care packages to troops deployed overseas.

February Hero–Emma Polyukhovich currently attends Pinkerton Academy in Derry. During the past two years, she has volunteered more than 250 hours to support relief efforts for her native country of Ukraine.

March Hero–Bedford High School senior Kate Mikol has worked to ease food insecurity. As the operations director of Fueled by Kids, she helps provide more than 900 care packages every week, which are distributed to students at 21 schools in Manchester.

April Hero–Calvin Plante, a senior at Pinkerton Academy in Derry, has been recognized for volunteering at the Derry Museum of History. He is also an active volunteer at the Boys and Girls Club.

May Hero–Brooke Adams, a recent graduate of South Merrimack Christian Academy in Merrimack, volunteered countless hours with charities both at home and abroad, spending summers working with children in Guatemala.

June Hero–Sienna Lee Muccioli is a student at Founders Academy in Manchester. She has volunteered more than 900 hours working with numerous local charities in the Nashua area.

July Hero–Raquel DeLeo recently graduated from Bedford High School. In addition to volunteering with the YMCA, she created a podcast for young women geared toward improving their emotional wellbeing and mental health.

August Hero–Angelina Townsend, a recent graduate of Pinkerton Academy in Derry, volunteers her time supporting Derry’s local soup kitchen and the Animal Rescue League.

September Hero–Ryan Rankins is a recent graduate of Bedford High School and has been an invaluable resource to Bless This Home, a nonprofit organization that helps provide fully furnished spaces for women and families leaving restorative programs.

October Hero–Jullian LeBlanc, a recent graduate of Pelham High School, is the co-founder of Dancin’ Clusion, a nonprofit organization for special needs children.

November Hero–Gibson Griffith is home schooled and is the founder of One Kid Can Make a Difference. This group finds opportunities for youth volunteers and offers monthly community service programs to kids and families of all ages.

December Hero–Sophia Baird is the co-founder of The Good Shepherds Foundation, a nonprofit organization focused on helping young community leaders fulfill their goals by providing support, education and a volunteer base.