Service Above Self Winner - Alek Abate from Nease High School

Last week it was our pleasure to have our Service Above Self winner from Nease High School, Alek Abate, present his winning essay.

Alek Abate was recognized for his commitment to and passion for volunteerism and philanthropy both on a local and international level. In the past three years, Alek volunteered building homes at a local Habitat for Humanity chapter in St. Augustine and teaching English and computer skills to youth in Ethiopia and India. He also served as a teacher’s assistant in a preschool in Cusco, Peru. While in Peru, Alek organized an inaugural road race for children in an impoverished section of the city, and distributed toys and clothing. This summer, Alek will volunteer in Iten in Rift Valley, Kenya, where he is planning to work with underprivileged youth. Alek is a co-founder of the Pebble Foundation (IRS 501(c)(3) status currently pending), whose mission is to promote grassroots outreach and encourage meaningful cross-cultural exchange and relationships among children and adults.