Midnight Run is a non-profit organization dedicated to aiding those in need, specifically in New York City. Hackley is one of many schools that are partnered with Midnight Run, collecting clothing, food, and toiletries to hand out. Once a month, Hackley’s Midnight Run club goes to New York City to personally hand out the bags filled with essential items such as shampoo, toothpaste and toothbrushes, and different simple foods like sandwiches. People in New York City are able to sign up through the organization to receive these goodie bags, and Hackley’s club members deliver the bags to those who signed up.

Seniors Danny Zampolin and Will Rao lead the club, both having been involved with Midnight Run throughout their high school years. Next year, juniors Matt Kearns and Jack Yalmokas plan on becoming leaders of the club.

“I really enjoy being a part of this club and feel like I am making a difference in people’s lives. I really encourage other people to join if you have the time,” junior Matt Kearns said.

“I didn’t know what to expect before joining the club, but now the monthly trips are something I genuinely look forward to going on,” junior Jack Yalmokas said.

More than anything, Midnight Run’s goal is to create relationships between the housed and the homeless. By hand delivering the bags, stronger bonds are formed establishing a foundation of sharing and caring from which solutions may evolve. In the organization’s bio they noted, “Volunteers come to see people on the streets as real people, not a commodity,” demonstrating that above all, personal connections between people are the most important.

“One thing I really love about Midnight Run is the connections I am able to make with the people. Without this organization, I would have missed out on meeting a lot of amazing people.,” Danny said.

Open for all Upper School students to join, Midnight Run hopes to gain more members and continue to go on their monthly relief trips in the future.