FRANKLIN — Superintendent Lucas Giguere and Principal Craig Williams are proud to share that Remington Middle School eighth grader Cade Taccini has been selected as Franklin’s Project 351 Ambassador.
Remington Middle School nominated Cade for her willingness to help whenever needed, strong leadership skills, and ability to serve as a voice of reason among her peers.
“Cade is the first person to volunteer when she sees something that needs to be done. She completes her work with integrity, seeks to learn, and showcases her creativity and strengths,” said Principal Williams. “She is an active member of our school community, and we are incredibly proud of her commitment to service.”
Cade was surprised to learn she was named as the community’s Project 351 Ambassador. But she was honored by the appointment.
“I thought, ‘Wow. Me?’ Then I felt really good about myself that my teachers and school thought I could make a difference,” Cade said.
Project 351 is a statewide youth-led service initiative that brings together eighth-grade students from every city and town in Massachusetts for a year of leadership development and community service. Ambassadors are chosen for their dedication to helping others, commitment to service, and leadership potential.
On Jan. 25, Cade joined fellow Ambassadors from across the state at Project 351’s annual Launch Day in Boston, where they participated in a day of service and leadership training.
After gathering at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum for a morning of celebration, attended by Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll, the Project 351 Ambassadors were mobilized by Service Hero teams for an afternoon of volunteerism at La Colaborativa, Brighton High School, and Cradles to Crayons. In partnership with these community leaders, Ambassador service on Launch Day impacted more than 34,000 neighbors.
Through Project 351, Cade has already seen how small actions can create meaningful change.
“I’ve learned how group fundraisers can impact so many people. By doing simple things, we can make a difference,” she said. “I’ve also learned that there are other kids out there who are willing and excited to make a better future.”
This year, Project 351 celebrates its 15th year with a collective social impact on more than 1.4 million lives. Project 351’s annual Launch celebration honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King.
“Project 351 is powered by the idealism and ideas of 8th grade change makers,” said Carolyn Casey, Project 351 Founder and Executive Director. “As we welcome our 5,588th Ambassador, we celebrate the transformative good made possible when we unite in common cause. And we uplift the values they stand for -- kindness, compassion, and respect for the dignity of all.”
Looking ahead, Cade is eager to take what she has learned and apply it in Franklin.
“I want to show people that if we work together, we can make a big impact,” Cade said. “I’m looking forward to leading my fundraiser at school and meeting other Ambassadors who want to make a difference.”
Cade has been an active participant in Remington’s school community, including involvement in student council and the Little Buddies program. Remington Middle School and district leaders are excited to see how she brings her Project 351 experience back to Franklin.
“Not only is Cade representing Franklin on a statewide level, but she will also be bringing back what she’s learned to make a difference in our own community,” said Principal Williams. “Her dedication to service sets a great example for others.”
“Cade’s selection as a Project 351 Ambassador is a testament to her leadership, compassion, and dedication to service,” said Superintendent Lucas Giguere. “We are very proud of her commitment to making a difference, and we look forward to seeing how she uses this opportunity to positively impact Remington Middle School, Franklin, and the broader community.”
About Project 351
Founded in 2011, Project 351 is a youth-led movement for change powered by an eighth-grade unsung hero and high school Alumni mentors selected to represent every city and town in Massachusetts. Youth are recognized by hometown educators for an exemplary ethic of service; values of kindness, compassion, humility, and gratitude; and devotion to equity and inclusion. The Ambassadors’ 12-month term of leadership development and service is the foundation of Project 351’s leadership model. High school, college, and career Alumni steward Project 351’s mission and model of impact as mentors, program leaders, and governance. Through the 35ONE enrichment continuum, a new generation of leaders develops the skills, knowledge, and courage to achieve bold change. Click here for more information.
