City of Jackson Recognizes Ria Patel as July Hub City Hero
2023 Madison Academic Magnet High School graduate Ria Patel has been selected as July 2023 Hub City Hero.
Patel’s nominator said that her goal has been “to make an impact in her community any way she can.” Patel is the creator of “Ria’s Heart” which, according to her nominator, is a “behavioral therapy art program for children who are autistic.”
Patel has volunteered her time with Oakhaven Assisted Living where she, according to her nominator, “would bake all kinds of goodies to take to the residents” and spend time on several occasions, buying and creating gift bags containing personal care items, and on one occasion purchasing game boards, puzzles, and card games for the resident’s activity area.”
Ria says that The Star Center is one organization that she’s been affiliated with the longest. Her fundraiser, “Cupcakes for a Cause” raised money through selling cupcakes that she learned to bake during the Pandemic. She said that when she returns during the summer that she will teach baking classes at the Star Center.
“The Star Center was mostly important to me,” Patel said. “I wanted to do some kind of cupcake drive to raise money for [them].”
Patel said that she feels rewarded when combining her passion and service.
“Always go with your passion,” Patel said. “If you think about what you love and what you really love to do, incorporate that into your community service.”
“Ria is a model for selflessness,” said Mayor Scott Conger. “Her volunteering for multiple organizations, all while maintaining a 4.0 GPA during her time in high school, shows a true passion for service to others.”
“Hub City Heroes” selflessly and steadily give of their time and talent to improve the lives of others in the community. Recognition as a hero is one small way to thank these public servants for their efforts and it gives honorees the opportunity to raise awareness for causes that are important to them.
Criteria
- Committed to improving the quality of life of others in Jackson
- Contributes time to community activities in a volunteer capacity
- Serves as a role model and inspiration to others
- Focuses on growth and well-being of the community we serve
- Empowers and engages others to give back
- Demonstrates integrity, collaboration, innovation and respect
Recipients will be selected monthly and nominations are continuous. To nominate a hero, visit http://hero.jacksontn.gov. Candidates must be a resident of Jackson, Tennessee
After a year of heroes have been recognized, one hero will be selected and awarded $1,000 to donate to a non-profit of their choice. For more information, visit http://hero.jacksontn.gov.
