CHEEKTOWAGA SENIORS AWARDED SCHOLARSHIPS FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY

Two graduating seniors have been recognized for their exceptional commitment to community service through the Cheektowaga Youth Engaged in Service (Y.E.S.) Program.   Mercedes Bivins and Elaina Carrillo have each received a $500 scholarship sponsored by the Det. Wasyl Potienko Memorial Foundation.

Mercedes has played a vital role in the success of Y.E.S. since its relaunch in fall 2021. As one of the first participants to rejoin following the pandemic, she is currently the longest-tenured volunteer in the program. Since October 2021, Mercedes has taken part in 74 Y.E.S. activities, contributing more than 150 hours of community service.  She was recognized as Y.E.S. Volunteer of the Month in October 2023.

Her consistent volunteering at the St. Stephens Food Pantry, time spent with residents at the nursing homes and the care that put into cooking meals for families at the Grace Guest House have all made a difference in people’s lives. It takes patience, empathy, and dedication to commit to volunteering as she has.  She is compassionate young adult poised to continue making a difference. Mercedes is a student at Health Sciences Charter School and will be pursuing an education in health sciences next year.  In addition to the Y.E.S. program, she takes piano lessons at Northtown Music and volunteers with Hadjis GEMs and STEMs, a youth club that focuses on science, technology and math.

Elaina has also made a significant impact during her time with the program. Since joining in June 2025, she has participated in 27 activities and contributed over 50 hours of service. Despite balancing a demanding senior year filled with extracurricular commitments, including band, choir, tennis, and theater, she remained dedicated to serving her community.  Elaina received the Y.E.S. Volunteer of the Month Award in November 2025.

Elaina’s natural ability to connect with children through activities like face painting has created welcoming and inclusive environments for families. Her role in providing childcare during PTO meetings has helped parents stay engaged, offering peace of mind that their children are safe and cared for. Her reliability and kindness have made a lasting impression in a short amount of time.

After graduating from John F. Kennedy High School, Elaina plans to attend Canisius University in the fall for special education and childhood education. 

“These scholarships represent more than hours served, they are a reflection of the integrity, compassion, and leadership these young women bring to their community,” said Alicia Hark, Y.E.S. program coordinator. “Mercedes and Elaina embody the spirit of service that the Y.E.S. program strives for.”

About the Det. Wasyl Potienko Memorial FoundationCheektowaga Police Detective Wasyl Potienko worked to change the lives of the youth in our community.  The Foundation bearing his name supports academic growth and youth activities through donations and scholarships.  

About the Cheektowaga Youth Engaged in Service (Y.E.S.) ProgramThe Youth Engaged in Service (Y.E.S.) program is a volunteer organization for Cheektowaga teens in grades 6 - 12.  With nearly 200 participants, volunteers get to meet new people while making a difference in the community.  Each month, members select events to participate in, including family craft nights, activities with the elderly at local nursing homes, Lego Clubs, holiday events, babysitting during school PTO meetings, and so much more.