Buffalo Prep celebrates growth; gives back to community
On Friday, more than 220 Buffalo Prep students participated in the first "Buffalo Prep Goes Green" event, which involved planting a commemorative tree at the site of the organization's future home on the University at Buffalo south campus. The facility's upgrades will allow Buffalo Prep to offer more services and welcome more students. It is set to open next year.
The students planted a flowering pear tree, which represents longevity and comfort. A plaque will be placed in commemoration of the event and the start of a new beginning and a new home for Buffalo Prep.
In addition to the tree-planting at UB, students completed service and beautification projects around the campus, and helped clean up Delaware Park as the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy prepares for its popular summer season. The day wrapped up with a trip to the Buffalo Zoo, where students enjoyed lunch and learned about wildlife conservation.
The entire day was sponsored by longtime Buffalo Prep supporter M&T Bank.
"As we expand our services and plan our move to our future home, these activities are a great way to demonstrate our commitment to the community, and they provide a happy and hopeful start to summer," said Patti Stephen, executive director for Buffalo Prep. "It's so fitting to plant a tree that will continue to branch out and flourish, making it the perfect metaphor for the Buffalo Prep organization and its students."
Since its founding in 1989, Buffalo Prep has worked with thousands of underrepresented students to provide academic and social support in a rigorous and nurturing environment. Through this preparatory process, Buffalo Prep students are able to enter and excel in local private and competitive public high schools, colleges and universities.