The Colonie Central High School (CCHS) auditorium was filled with students as ICARE kicked off the school year with its annual opening assembly.

Led by CCHS students, the assembly gave students a look at what ICARE is all about and the many ways they can get involved at school. This year’s theme, “We’re In This Together,” was woven throughout the morning.

ICARE President Vincent Forenzo encouraged students to make the most of their time at CCHS and to recognize that everyone has a role in the school community.

“Every single one of us brings something different to this school. Different backgrounds, different talents, different goals,” Forenzo said. “But when we come together, those differences make us stronger.”

ICARE was created in 2012 by then-Associate Principal Thomas Kachadurian and a group of students who wanted to make a positive difference in the school climate. The name ICARE comes from the five principles that guide the group: Integrity, Community, Accountability, Respect and Empathy.

Associate Principal Tess McCarthy, who works closely with ICARE, said the students continue to find new ways to make those principles part of everyday life at Colonie.

“What I love about ICARE is that it really belongs to the students,” McCarthy said. “They see things happening in our school and they want to do something about them. They come up with ideas, they get other students involved and they keep looking for ways to make CCHS a better place.”

The assembly also introduced students to the various clubs available at CCHS. ICARE leaders encouraged students to try something new, whether that means joining a club, playing a sport, volunteering or getting involved in one of the many activities offered throughout the year.

The morning also highlighted some of ICARE’s work outside the school. Students heard about the organization’s community service efforts, its partnership with community organizations and its work through No Place for Hate and the Kind Human program.

This year, Mission For Marcus is ICARE’s partner organization. Mission For Marcus is committed to “Stomping Out the Stigma” associated with substance use disorder and underlying mental health challenges and works to support individuals and families affected by substance use.

Throughout the school year, money raised through ICARE events will go toward supporting the mission of Mission For Marcus. Students heard more about the organization during the assembly and how their involvement in ICARE events can help support its work in the community.

ICARE leaders also gave students a preview of events planned for the school year, including Halloween High, Holiday Lights, the Mac & Chili Cook-Off, Pay Less for the Dress and Pack Fest.

The assembly ended with ICARE’s first Pay It Forward Friday of the year. Students in a few lucky seats received gift bags filled with Colonie swag, with Wolfie joining ICARE members on stage for the surprise.

The morning was a chance for students to learn more about ICARE, get involved and see how their participation can extend beyond the walls of CCHS.

As ICARE begins another school year, its student leaders are hoping to bring more students into the work and show that small actions can make a difference.