Way to Go! Nicholas Montoro of Syosset

A Syosset High School senior with a penchant for volunteerism has been recognized with a prestigious award from the American Red Cross.

Nicholas Montoro, 17, received the Florence Cohen Memorial Youth Award from the organization’s Greater New York Region for exemplifying “the true nature of volunteerism.” The award was given to one Long Island Red Cross youth member, the school said.

The teen credits his father, Salvatore, both for inspiring him to volunteer with the Red Cross when he was in the eighth grade and for his efforts since.

The father-son duo has helped many families in need, especially after superstorm Sandy in October 2012.

“Growing up and seeing my dad do so much volunteer work really inspired me a lot,” said Montoro, who was honored this month during a Red Cross recognition event at Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury. “In the Red Cross, we try to help others in different ways. It’s nice to have the ability to help someone else.”

During Sandy, the Montoros worked to organize shelters for local families whose homes were damaged, including many who gathered at Nassau Memorial Veterans Coliseum to have a warm place to stay and a roof over their heads, he said.

Montoro also is a member of his school’s Italian Club and Interact Club.

By Michael R. Ebert

michael.ebert@newsday.com

Michael R. Ebert is an education researcher and has worked for Newsday in various capacities since 2003. He was part of an 11-person team named as 2008 Pulitzer Prize finalists for investigative coverage of the LIRR's platform safety issues.