Project 351, founded in partnership with Deval Patrick, empowers eighth graders across Massachusetts through leadership development, service opportunities, and civic engagement.
As part of the program’s annual Spring Service initiative supporting Cradles to Crayons, Aria Andrade, the 2026 Ambassador from Elizabeth Hastings Middle School, led a standout community effort. Partnering with Wood Elementary School, EHMS, and Besteas Bubble Tea Room alongside Alison Steele, Aria organized a friendly competition to collect clothing and shoes.
With additional support from several Grade 8 students who helped sort donations, Aria demonstrated exceptional organizational and leadership skills that inspired widespread participation. The effort resulted in 105 large bags of new and gently used clothing and shoes for children in need.
In recognition of this achievement, State Representative Mark Sylvia visited the school to honor Aria’s leadership and community impact. Spring Service is the largest youth-led service initiative in Massachusetts, and her work reflects Project 351’s mission to build a more compassionate, service-driven generation—positively changing the world one project at a time.