It was as an unusual and quiet summer for teenagers all over southern California, due to coronavirus shutdowns.
Our KNX Hero of the Week decided to use his free time, helping other young people expand their creative minds.
Had it been a normal year, Joseph Ettipio would have spent the summer hanging with friends, cycling the trails, and taking part in a high-adventure trip with his boy scout troop.
Joseph EttipioKNX 1070 News Handout
"We were going to hike up Mt. Whitney," explains the Eagle Scout.
But that didn't happen.
COVID-19 restrictions kept everyone at home, and teens all over SoCal suddenly found themselves isolated, with little to do. So, Joseph figured out a way to keep young people connected, by setting-up weekly writing camps for middle and high school students, complete with instructions and assignments.
To say he kept busy, is an understatement. But, helping others is something Joseph is used to doing. And, donations he received for his tutoring was given to his former elementary school, and three teachers who sparked his love for writing.
Christine Chang is a parent of one of the students that Joseph helped. "He's amazing!"
"He's really intelligent, and well-spoken," says Christine. "My daughter loved the class! You know, it hard to get your kids to sign up for an academic class over the summertime. He gave them pointers, and how to improve. He’s really just a really good kid."
Looking back, Joseph says the pandemic was helpful, in a way. "It allowed me to focus my mind," says the aspiring doctor.
17 year-old Canyon High School student Joseph Ettiopio is our KNX Hero of the Week!
"I'm just a normal senior high school student... who just decided to do something for my community," Joseph says, humbly.
KNX Heroes is brought to you by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
Nominate a KNX Hero in your life at https://www.audacy.com/knxnews/nominate
