JUNIOR CITIZENS HONORS INVOLVED TEEN
CHICAGO PARK DISTRICT RECOGNIZES LOCAL TEENS
Release Date: 04/06/07
The Chicago Park District recently honored the contributions of twenty-four teens from the north side of Chicago. At the awards and dinner ceremony the Park District announced its esteemed 2007 Junior Citizens finalists from the North Region; Astrid Nunez (BergerPark & CulturalCenter), Michael Gonzalez (BroadwayArmoryPark), Claire Cobb (IndianRoadPark), and Martin Teresi (MatherPark).These four young adults were selected by the judges for exhibiting strong leadership skills and consistent involvement in his or her community and the world at large.
“It’s important to recognize our younger citizens for their contributions to Chicago and ability to make a positive difference in the world around them”, said Chicago Park District Region Manager Matt Marino. “Through recognition of their shared talents, the Junior Citizen Award program builds self esteem and encourages youth to continue giving back to the communities in which they live.”
Astrid Nunez representing Berger Park & Cultural Center is a senior at Lincoln ParkHigh School.Nunez has participated in an assortment of programs such as ballet, after-school programs, and worked as a summer day camp recreational leader. At school, she is a member of the choir and social environmental political awareness club. Nunez plans on attending DePaulUniversity and double major in Fine Arts/Journalism.
A senior at SennHigh SchoolMichael Gonzalez representing BroadwayArmoryPark has become a fixture at the park through his volunteer work.On any given day you my find him in the gym helping with the after-school program or participating in a park clean-up.At school, Gonzalez has been a member of the football and softball team, and loves to get his hands dirty in the automotive shop. After graduation Gonzales plans to purse a career where he can make a difference helping others.
Claire Cobb representing Indian Road Park is a senior at WhitneyYoungMagnetHigh School. At school, Cobb has participated in many activities -including the dance team, student council, Member of the National Honor Society, Mikeva Challenge and drama productions. A big fan of the Park District Cobb believes that she has found inspiration and her inner voice through the dance programs at the park. As for her future, Cobb plans on attending college and become a Physical Therapist.
A senior at CICSNorthtownAcademy, Martin Teresi of MatherParkhas been involved in park district programs since he was a toddler.From community volunteer work at Misericorida to school activities such as athletics, student government and theatre, to his local park involvement these commitments has helped shape who he is today.Teresi plans on attending Illinois State College and pursue a degree in Education with a focus on teaching those who are learning and behavior challenged.
The Chicago Park District’s Junior Citizens Program, which began in the late 1940’s, is designed to inspire, empower and recognize the future leaders of Chicago. The selection process begins at local parks, advances through Park District areas and regions and finally culminates in a citywide competition.A panel of judges, comprised of representatives from schools, private companies and non-profit organizations, reviews each finalist’s summary of activities and essays and then conducts personal interviews. Judges evaluate finalists on their contributions to their parks, schools, churches, neighborhoods, character and values, employment history and career/educational goals. Each candidate must be a junior or senior in high school with a “C” average or better.
More than 65 young people participated in the North Region Junior Citizens Competition this year representing their local park.
- Contact Phone: 312 742 7529
- Publication Date: 04/06/07
