This post is sponsored and contributed by Patch In Town, a Patch Brand Partner.

Seasonal & Holidays

How One Mentee’s Compassion Made A Powerful Difference This Year

For Patricia Ishmael, seeing her mentee Will Pena honored for helping hundreds was a reminder of the impact one person can make.

This year, Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to spotlight the thankful moments that bring our communities together.
This year, Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to spotlight the thankful moments that bring our communities together. (Mexican consulate photo / Courtesy of Patricia Ishmael )

Manhattan, NY — Thanksgiving is the perfect time to pause and reflect on what brings us joy — from family and friends to meaningful traditions and everyday moments. This year, Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to spotlight the thankful moments that bring our communities together.

Here’s what Patricia Ishmael in Manhattan shared. Want to tell us what you’re thankful for? It could be a person, a tradition, or even a small everyday joy — just answer a few questions, and let your community know what matters most to you this year.


What are you most thankful for this year?

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The moment that brightened my year was my mentee, Will Pena from WH, being honored at the Mexican Consulate for donating wheelchairs, canes and walkers to over 200 New Yorkers and the Mexican communities. We are so very proud of his contribution and commitment to helping those who are less fortunate.

Why does this mean so much to you?

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It’s our responsibility to teach the young to help and respect their community.

How has this made a difference in your 2025?

Just knowing that one of [my mentees] is out there helping others brings me joy.

What do you wish others knew about what you’re thankful for?

I hope and wish this story will inspire others to take notice of those in their community that needs help especially the elderly and disabled.


What are you thankful for this year — a business, a community organization, a place, or a person who’s made a difference? We want to hear from you! Click here to answer a few questions, and your response could be featured on Patch.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.

This post is sponsored and contributed by Patch In Town, a Patch Brand Partner.