Student Action Committee

CAN DO’s Student Action Committee is comprised of local area high school students, who serve as non-voting members of the CAN DO Board of Directors. These students meet once every month and take part in educational workshops covering presentation skills, leadership, public speaking, team building, project management, field trips to local workforce industries/businesses, community service, workforce readiness, and community event planning.

Mission

The program’s purpose is to provide students with practical and hands-on experiences that relate to CAN DO’s service area – defined as the Greater Hazleton Area School District’s geographic location. By engaging in this program, students will learn valuable skills such as organizing community events, developing leadership skills, and building connections with local businesses and resources. This includes engaging with nonprofit organizations and participating in volunteer activities. Such experiences enhance students’ preparedness to enter the workforce and enable them to make meaningful contributions to their community.

Alex Composto (Student Chair) – MMI

“My experience with the Student Action Committee has been enlightening to say the least. I never considered myself to be a very business-oriented person, but being a part of the SAC has provided me with a deeper insight into the inner workings of business that I never thought I would be able to experience. I absolutely love being a member of the SAC, and I strive every day to fulfill the responsibilities of my role as chair within the committee. I feel so welcomed within an organization that gives students opportunities that they would otherwise be unlikely to obtain until later on in their careers.”

Learn More

Javier Vazquez – HAHS

“I am very grateful to the Student Action Committee for the opportunity to help veterans through Operation CAN DO. We learned about how much they need our support and how we can make a difference. This will be an event in my life that I will never forget.”

Luke Palmieri – HAAS

“Being part of the student action committee has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Collaborating with other passionate students to organize impactful projects and events has allowed us to make a positive difference in our community. This opportunity has taught me leadership, teamwork, and the value of giving back.”

Gabriella Breddbenner – HAHS

“During my time on the CAN DO Student Action Committee, I had the opportunity to develop essential leadership and communication skills. Through initiatives such as Operation CAN DO and CAN DO Community Christmas, I have seen the positive impact of student involvement in the community. I was given the chance to explore local businesses and connect with entrepreneurs, gaining valuable insights and advice to become a better leader and community member.”

Erica Boyle – MHS

“The Student Action Committee has opened up so many opportunities for me. It really is a wonderful program. The service projects I participate in are an awesome way to get involved in the community and make a difference. Operation CAN DO has been a significant event in my school and for the community, and it is amazing that we can continue to do this through the SAC.”

Hayden Schwabe – MMI

“Serving on the Student Action Committee has been an incredibly rewarding experience that has deepened my commitment to community service and personal growth. Through various events, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with and engage others, learning the value of service in creating a positive impact. SAC also has been pivotal in developing my leadership skills, continually challenging me to be a better version of myself while emphasizing the importance of giving back. This experience has not only strengthened my dedication to helping others but has also prepared me to lead with purpose and empathy.”

Johncarlos Peralta – HAHS

“My time with the Student Action Committee has allowed me to begin to make an impact in my community. Working with peers to run Operation CAN DO felt great as I was able to make a difference, help veterans, and make my mark on the community through our holiday events!”

Shelli Selby – ICS

“I was so excited when I was given the opportunity to be on the CanDo Student Action Committee; it has been amazing so far! I have made friendships with other like-minded and educated highschoolers from many different school districts, I have learned a lot about CanDo and how it impacts the greater Hazleton Area and even the world, and most importantly, I have gotten a better sense of what I want to do with my future. CanDo has empowered me and believed in me, and I’m happy that I get to spend the rest of the year being involved with the CanDo Student Action Committee!”

Ava Sahaida – WAHS

“I was asked this year to be a part of the CANDO Student Action Committee. I’m so happy I was asked! We meet every month, working to make the community a better place through various pitches and community service projects! I loved the session where we got to make vision boards at the Hazleton Art League!”