PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WPRI) — A 12-year-old boy raised more than $5,000, and donated it all to a good cause.
Zachary Gosselin was honored by Pawtucket Mayor Donald R. Grebien for his work with the Pawtucket Red Sox to raise money for Operation Stand Down Rhode Island – an organization which provides housing, employment and other assistance to veterans.
“Zack is a remarkable young man with a bright future,” Mayor Grebien said in a statement. “His commitment to helping others and getting involved in charitable causes shows a maturity well beyond his age.”
Gosselin celebrated his 12th birthday in July and threw the first pitch at a Pawtucket Red Sox game alongside 100 U.S. Armed Forces veterans.
“Over the last 6 years, I’ve learned that being an elite athlete on the playing surface or star student in the classroom is wonderful. However, nothing compares to the amazing feeling one receives when they raise the level of hope for somebody facing ‘trying’ times in life,” Gosselin said. “It is purely magical what can happen when we lead with our hearts to do-good for another in life!”
Gosselin has raised over $15,000 in donations for numerous causes since 2012.