Youth leader honored for courageous stand against bullying
October 03, 2024 | Hillsborough County, Florida
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This year’s recipient, Nicholas \"Nick\" DeCastro, a college freshman at Florida Gulf Coast University, was recognized for his proactive efforts while still a senior at Steinbrenner High School. Nick took the initiative to address bullying incidents involving freshmen, particularly targeting students with disabilities and those from diverse cultural backgrounds. With the support of school resource officer Anthony Bennett and fellow seniors, Nick organized interventions that successfully educated younger students on respect and empathy, leading to a notable decrease in bullying incidents.
In his acceptance speech, Nick shared his personal experiences with bullying, emphasizing the importance of standing up for others and creating a safe environment for all. He expressed hope that his actions would inspire others to intervene when witnessing bullying.
The meeting also acknowledged the contributions of the Hillsborough County Anti-Bullying Advisory Committee, with special thanks to Eva Dyer, the project manager, for her behind-the-scenes efforts. Elijah Hewing, a sponsor of the award, highlighted the importance of community support in addressing bullying and commended first responders for their dedication.
The event underscored the critical role of youth in fostering a culture of respect and kindness, showcasing how individual actions can lead to meaningful change in school environments.
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