In the winter of 2010, Nick was accepted into the AmeriCorps Builds Lives through Education (ABLE) tutoring program.  He moved from his small hometown of Cooperstown, NY to Buffalo, a city across the state in need of his talents.    

Nick’s first term of service at Cradle Beach was challenging.  Cradle Beach focuses mainly on a summer camp that engages children with disabilities and those who come from disadvantaged backgrounds.  In order to extend their summer camping enrichment program, Nick was asked to assist in a new initiative called Project SOAR.  This project focuses on Success, Opportunity, Achievement and Responsibility for low performing elementary students from the inner city.  The selected students received direct tutoring services during school hours, and had the opportunity to join weekend excursions to Cradle Beach Camp, just south of Buffalo on Lake Erie.   Most of the students have never been exposed to the “great outdoors” nor seen a large body of water.  Due to administrative struggles, all the excursions originally planned, could not take place.  Recognizing that he could not control the situation, Nick focused on what he did best, tutoring his assigned ten students.  Those students saw an improvement in their overall averages that year, and all 10 were able to move on to the fourth grade!

Nick’s journey of service wasn’t complete.  Believing whole heartily in the mission of Project SOAR, Nick signed up for a second term of service to see the program become successful.  Nick took on the lead role in implementing the program, and mentored the three new ABLE members who joined Cradle Beach that fall. 

Working with a team, Nick has led four excursions to Cradle Beach Camp.  Each excursion engages thirty to forty students in service projects.  Service projects have ranged from environmental clean-ups to writing letters and cards to 45 active members in military service.  These excursions also engage the students in outdoor activities that they have never been exposed to, such as nature walks and ice-skating.    

Nick has been instrumental in the success of Project SOAR.  His leadership, passion, and true commitment to create positive change has been the leading force behind the students in the SOAR program receiving the services they need.  This year forty students in an elementary Buffalo Public School, are receiving extended tutoring help, the influence of a positive role model, consistent attention, and the eye opening adventures at Cradle Beach Camp. 

That is why, with great confidence and honor, I am happy to nominate Nicholas Schifano for the Service Impact Award.