by Mike Matzinger
Congratulations to Secaucus, New Jersey teen Jayden Altamura on earning the Congressional Award Gold Medal, the highest honor for youth presented by the U.S. Congress.
A Scouting America alum, Jayden has built an impressive record of leadership, service, and achievement. He is a former co-captain of the Secaucus High School swim team and an active member and former president of Secaucus Cares, the student-led Student in Action club that supports the Hygiene Project.
The Congressional Award recognizes initiative, service, and personal growth among young people ages 13 to 23. To earn the Gold Medal, recipients must complete hundreds of hours across four key areas: voluntary public service, personal development, physical fitness, and expedition or exploration.
Jayden’s accomplishments reflect that commitment. He packed thousands of hygiene kits for those in need, helped clean Secaucus town parks, organized collection drives, and served meals at homeless shelters. In addition to leading Secaucus Cares, he excelled as both a swimmer and a member of the Secaucus Patriots boys’ cross-country team.
He also broadened his perspective through a five-day, four-night service and cultural immersion program in Panama, where he worked with families and children in an indigenous village.
Well done, Jayden!
https://patch.com/new-jersey/secaucus/secaucus-teen-wins-congressional-award-gold-medal