Jacob Is Making A Difference In The World: Westfield Star Student

WESTFIELD, NJ — Star Students are found in classrooms, on concert and theater stages and at debate lecterns, and out in the community doing good things to make life better for all of us.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize Star Students, and we’re working to tell the stories of these outstanding kids to their neighbors.

This submission comes from Kimberly Hafer who nominated her son Jacob - Grade 11 of Westfield.

Star local student’s name

Jacob - Grade 11

Star local student’s home state

New Jersey

How do you know the star local student?

He is my son.

Why do you believe the star local student should be recognized?

Jacob has made a significant impact upon his local community, specifically with the Wolves Basketball Academy, which provides an inclusive instructional and competitive environment for children with special needs to gain a positive experience through sports. In 2018, as part of his Bar Mitzvah project, Jacob founded a scholarship fund, which provides financial assistance to families who want to participate in the program but do not have the financial means. In addition, Jacob has spent countless hours volunteering at the Academy, working with children of all ages, to help them improve their basketball skills and confidence level. Over the years, his dedication to the program has only strengthened, and as a Westfield High School basketball player, and the Varsity Basketball team manager currently, he has been able to bring his love and knowledge of the sport to children who often don't have a viable option to participate in sports. Although his passion for playing basketball is evident, his work with the organization has clarified for him the true gift of playing sports, often stating, "Nothing on the court makes me feel as good as watching one of the kids smile when they make a basket." We are proud of his dedication and longevity with the program and the relationships he has made along the way. It is not unusual for individuals within the community, when they realize Jacob is my son, to mention what an positive impact Jacob has had on their child while at Wolves.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the star local student?

Jacob's summer experiences at sleep-away camp and his participation in community service programs, such as the Coral Restoration Foundation and Reef Environmental Educational Foundation in Florida have allowed Jacob to gain leadership and teamwork skills, broaden his perspective and awareness of working with individuals with special needs, and inspired him to make a difference in the world.

Congratulations on your achievements, and all of our best wishes to you in the future, Jacob!

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