Moravian Academy Students Honored for Outstanding Community Service

Merle-Smith Campus students Austin Blackham ’27 and Hunter Blackham ’29 have been recognized by the United Nations Association of the USA and InnerView through the eighth annual Community Service Impact Awards for their outstanding commitment to service and community engagement. They earned Ambassador Awards, recognizing students who complete more than 100 hours of service during the school year, and were also honored with Zero Hero Awards for their efforts supporting communities through service projects.

 

Throughout the year, Austin and Hunter dedicated their time to a wide range of meaningful initiatives. At the Bethlehem Emergency Shelter, they prepared and served meals, organized donated food, and assisted with holiday dinners for community members in need. They also volunteered with Give Kids the World, helping create memorable experiences for children and families through activities, meal delivery, and themed events during wish-trip vacations.

 

Their service extended to Camp Camelot, where they supported children with special needs during activity days, parties, and field trips, helping foster an inclusive and welcoming environment for every participant. The pair also joined the Blessing Boxes Project, purchasing supplies and building four new community blessing boxes in downtown Bethlehem to replace aging structures and continue supporting neighbors in need.

 

In addition, Austin and Hunter dedicated more than 100 hours to church service initiatives, including assisting families in the community, visiting elderly members, preparing lessons, shoveling snow, decorating for events, and supporting outreach efforts wherever help was needed.

This year, students recognized through the Community Service Impact Awards collectively contributed more than 2.3 million hours of service nationwide, representing an estimated $78 million in community impact. 

 

Through their service, Austin and Hunter demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting their community through meaningful, hands-on involvement and consistent dedication to helping others.