Miami Palmetto High School senior Jake Hawkins dedicates his Sundays and school breaks to volunteering at the Friendship Circle, an organization that supports special needs children.
Recently, Hawkins actively participated in Friendship Circle’s Spring Break program, engaging with the children during mini field trips.
“We go over and be with the kids and we go on mini field trips,” he shares, illustrating the joy found in these interactions.
As a member of the Friendship Circle’s President’s Council, Hawkins plays a crucial role in representing the voices of volunteers.
The Council meets once a month with the organization’s officials to offer insights and suggestions on effective programs and activities that resonate with the children.
“We give them ideas on what’s most effective, and what the kids want,” he explains, showcasing his commitment to improving the experience for everyone involved.
Hawkins enjoys the opportunity to contribute his thoughts during these discussions.
“They’ll usually come to us with what they think is best. Everybody usually has a collective opinion. Like ‘Oh no, we did that last year, and it didn’t work. We should do this instead.’ Everyone is very committed,” he says, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the group.
In addition to his advisory role, Hawkins also heads the fundraising committee on the President’s Council.
He is also involved in the Friend’s at Home program, where he spends time with a child named Matthew.
“We go to his house and we go on his golf cart out in his community and play basketball. He just loves being with us. It’s been two years now. We started in March of 2023 with him,” Hawkins mentions, reflecting on the deep bond that has formed over time.
This ongoing relationship makes his upcoming transition to college a bittersweet moment for Hawkins.
“It’ll be hard for us but definitely more so for him,” Hawkins admits. “His mom is always saying he’s looking forward to seeing you over the weekend. It will take him out of the weekly routine.”
Hawkins and his friend are devoted, visiting Matthew every Sunday unless they encounter an out-of-town conflict, which is rare.
“People don’t realize how big of a difference, the effect they have being around kids their own age,” he emphasizes, underscoring the mutual benefits of their interactions.
Hawkins observes that for many children, the anticipation of spending time with a volunteer is immense.
“Most of the kids can’t wait to see this person. Most of the people who do it understand it. This is literally their lives. They love it. It’s unreal,” he expresses passionately.
As the year comes to a close, volunteers reflect on the connections they have fostered during a closing ceremony.
“I remember when I first went and met with Matthew. At first, it was awkward. Now it’s like everything is fluid, smooth. It’s how a normal friendship is. You form a bond with your friend, nothing feels abnormal,” he recollects fondly.
Each Sunday session, scheduled from 5-6 p.m., has become a comforting routine for Hawkins, marking a joyful end to his week.
This past summer, Hawkins expanded his experience by becoming a counselor at a sleepaway camp in Maine.
Working with sixth graders, he was involved in numerous activities, ranging from sports to arts and crafts, and field trips.
Additionally, he served as a counselor-in-training at the Riviera Day Camp for four weeks during the summer before his sophomore year, working with children aged nine to 14.
In parallel to his volunteer commitments, Hawkins excels academically and athletically at Miami Palmetto High School.
He has been a dedicated member of the varsity lacrosse team for four years, contributing to their success as they made it to the District Quarterfinals this season.
Hawkins also serves as the contents editor of the school newspaper, the Panther, where he oversees the blog section, featuring a mix of fun stories and sports commentary.
“We have more fun stories and sports commentary,” he notes, emphasizing the variety of content provided.
In addition to these accomplishments, he is a member of both the Italian Honor Society and the National Honor Society.
Hawkins has also gained valuable experience through an internship at his uncle’s law firm, assisting with clerical work and filing.
His multifaceted involvement in volunteer work, sports, journalism, and academics showcases a young man committed to making a difference in his community while preparing for his future.
image source from：https://communitynewspapers.com/positive-people/positive-people-in-pinecrest-jake-hawkins/
