2015 Recipient

Rafael has a passion for volunteering and giving back to his local community.  As early as 13 years old, he has been selflessly giving his time to clean up his neighborhood, deliver hot meals to seniors and tutor young people.  While volunteering, then working at the Archdale Community Center, this Roslindale resident taught teens technology and engineering skills while increasing their self-esteem and confidence.  Rafael’s work with students was so successful that his technology program soon grew from being available in one community center to six across the city of Boston.    

In 2014 Rafael’s active leadership and initiative earned him the Youth Action Award at the We Are Boston Gala.  This award is given to a first generation Bostonian under the age of 21 who “ translates the perseverance, courage, and idealism of New Bostonians into action; and who has made significant contributions to empower his/her community, demonstrated cultural pride and promoted cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.”   Rafael is an exceptional young man who plans to pursue a career in public service.  We know he will continue to make a positive difference in his peers and