A thank you, by Jay Patel
To our community of champions,
The most special aspect about being a part of our 35ONE family is that whenever you stand shoulder-to-shoulder with someone, you’re looking into the eyes of a human powered by passion, driven by ambition, fueled by kindness, unfazed by challenge, inspired by identity, and guided by virtue. In the presence of overwhelming compassion and positivity, it’s impossible to feel alone. No matter who you are. No matter what your story is.
My name is Jay Patel, a member of the class of 2022. I’ve had the absolute privilege of being a part of this family for the past five years – first as Ambassador and throughout high school as a member of the Alumni Leadership Council. My experience leading the Playbook Initiative, courageous conversations on bias and discrimination, inspires my deep conviction in the power of 35ONE. Not only because of how it’s shaped my life, but because I know it will shape yours, too.
When I was in eighth grade, I was afraid. I was afraid that my hearing loss would limit my ability to connect with others, to build meaningful relationships, to make a difference in the world.
Project 351 taught me essential lessons that countered my insecurities. It gave me the space to challenge myself and the tools to do things I once believed were beyond my reach. I’ve learned that love does not always require words, but insists on actions guided by integrity and intention. For someone once intimidated by his own identity, this truth felt medicinal.
Today, I confidently lead my community in service, collaborate with partners, connect with changemakers, advocate before elected leaders, follow through with responsibility, and incorporate 35ONE values into every aspect of my life.
My leadership is motivated by Project 351’s belief in my generation and our resolve to make a difference in the world. I witness evidence of their faithfulness every day. My peers launch regional initiatives; challenge injustice, found nonprofit organizations, mentor and advocate, and build coalitions for change. Their leadership takes many forms – it is both small and grand, quiet and powerful, endless and intentional.
A powerful speech in front of hundreds of Superintendents? Service.
Building bridges to eradicate racism and discrimination? Service.
Mobilizing peers to advocate for mental health and wellness? Service.
Uniting thousands in service for Cradles to Crayons or Home Base or our local food pantries? Service.
Stepping outside your comfort zone to extend compassion and acceptance to others. Service. One of the most beautiful versions of it.
If you’re reading this letter, I have you to thank for this enlightenment.
I hope you recognize the power you hold. In a world as vast as this, choosing to be compassionate, to care deeply, and to show up for others is transformative. It is your shoulders that we stand upon – 5,930 strong. In return, my peers and I strive to honor your investment by building a more just and equitable world. And by following your example of reaching back and lifting up.
This Fall, I begin my freshman year at Williams Colllege. I’ll carry with me a simple, yet profound truth: service isn’t just what we do. It is who we become.
And when we choose to become it—fully, unapologetically, and together—we not only change communities.
We change lives.
Thank you for changing mine.
Sincerely,
Jay Patel
