For the last four years, Raina Pahade has worked to make the world a better place one cupcake at a time.
The Lawrence Middle School student bakes specialty cupcakes and
donates the proceeds to charities through her cupcake business, BetterWorld Cupcakes.
The theme of the cupcakes often corresponds to the charity. Her first charity was Project Ahimsa, an internationally-recognized non-profit dedicated to the empowerment of youth through music. Project Ahimsa provides music education to youth in poor, underserved areas around the world.
That same year, she was invited to WeDay in Vancouver, Canada and that event provided her with the inspiration to continue her dedication to volunteer service.
Her baking and corresponding charities have included animal-themed cupcakes paired with the African Wildlife Association and cupcakes for dentists paired with Operation Smile.
Lawrence Middle School Principal Mindy Milavsky applauded Pahade’s commitment to her vision and enthusiasm to make her ideas reality.
“She recently created a website for new orders and all of the proceeds will be donated. She is always searching for new and creative ways to expand BetterWorld Cupcakes,” Milavsky said. “All of us at Lawrence Middle School are very proud of her.”
For her efforts, Pahade has been honored for her volunteer service with a President’s Volunteer Service Award granted by the program on behalf of President Barack Obama.
The President’s Volunteer Service Awards recognize Americans of all ages who have volunteered significant amounts of their time to serve their communities and their country.
Pahade is also the recipient of a certificate of excellence from the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, which are presented annually by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National
Association of Secondary School Principals to honor young people across America for outstanding volunteer service.
The awards recognize middle level and high school students across America for outstanding volunteer service.
“Knowing that the money I have raised makes someone’s life better or improves our planet when I click the `send donation’ button on
a charity’s website is rewarding,” Pahade said. “Through BetterWorld Cupcakes, I have learned that I can make a difference.”
Congratulations!