— 2024 Unity Award Recipient —
Joseph Petraro
East Rockaway, NY
Joseph is a 10-year-old student who makes it his mission to spread kindness and prevent bullying. He is one of the New York State representatives for “Be Strong” and has taken the task seriously. Joe has gone into schools, started groups and participates in a No Child Sits Alone program. Joe also started Joe’s Be Kind Campaign. Joe is no stranger to bullying as he was beat up on a camp bus and left with a broken nose and concussion due to his tics from Tourette’s syndrome. His experiences with cancer and bullying led him to speak up bravely to the news media and elected officials about changing law and policy around bullying. Joe has taken being different and turned it into advocacy for others. He continues to stand up against bullying every day.
Nominated by Annie Petraro
How do you help build
UNITY in your community?
Hi! It’s me Joe!
In the heart of our community, I, Joe, stand tall,
A beacon of unity, embracing one and all.
With my non-profit's mission, I strive to inspire,
Kinder, inclusive spaces, where hearts can aspire.
Joe's Adopt a Grandparent Club, my heartfelt creation,
Bringing together young and old, a beautiful revelation.
No longer a divide, but a bridge we create,
Discovering our similarities, erasing judgment's slate.
Raising funds, not just for those near and dear,
But for the underserved, globally, far and near.
Through Joe's Clean Wells for Humanity, we extend a hand,
Providing clean water and supplies to distant lands.
In schools, clubs, and organizations, I lend my voice,
Speaking of resilience, antibullying, and the power of choice.
Mental health, Tourette's, disabilities I embrace,
Supporting those in rough times, with love and grace.
For unity in our community, I will be a guiding light,
Inclusion, acceptance, shining ever so bright.
As one person, I stand strong, leading the way,
Building a future where love has the final say.
Let's continue to build unity,
Strong bonds, we shall forever treasure.
For as Joe, I believe in the strength of unity,
A brighter world, where love knows no boundary.
