The Albuquerque Public Schools Foundation’s Selfless Seniors program has honored Del Norte Senior Cameron Ortega as one of the 2021 Selfless Seniors. The Selfless Seniors program shines a spotlight on students who have worked to make the community a better place.
“When I was a young girl my mother told me ‘You never know what happens behind closed doors, so always be kind and respectful to those around you.’ Honestly, I had no idea what she meant when she said this until I realized I had my own issues happening behind my closed door. Even though I was going through my own challenges I always stayed respectful, kind, honest and loyal to everyone I knew and even people who I just met. Receiving this award reminded me of how much an act of kindness really means, especially now with everything going on. Even though I volunteer with Roadrunner Food Bank, send letters to our veterans, read books to and interact with younger ages, I believe that being kind every day and putting a smile on your face makes a big difference in not only your own life, but for those around you. Even though it seems smaller than those other huge selfless activities, saying ‘Hi’ or even giving someone a compliment can really make someone’s day or even without knowing you can save a life. I have had the honor of being accepted into many programs at my school such as the AVID program, National Honor Society, Black Student Union, Spanish Honor Society, Student Leadership and even being able to participate in Volleyball, Track and Field and Wrestling. All of these amazing programs have helped me grow as not only a student but as a person as well.
When I graduate from high school my hope for Albuquerque is that we learn to come together as a community to do better things for our hard-working citizens like our teachers, doctors, fire fighters, nurses, police officers, fast food, retail and construction workers.”