AWARD RECIPIENT OF IMPACT | Mike Harris Outstanding Service Award

The Mike Harris Outstanding Service Award honors Dr. Mike Harris’s enduring legacy by recognizing individuals who exemplify his commitment to mentorship, resilience, and community. Dr. Harris was a psychologist and social activist who used adventure-based challenges to help kids in New York City realize their inner strength and full potential. Dr. Harris founded the original ‘CatRock Gang’ program in 1985 in order to provide stability and build self-esteem in troubled teens. This award celebrates volunteers, educators, and community leaders who make exceptional contributions to youth development through transformative outdoor programming.

We are thrilled to honor Peter Healy with the Mike Harris Outstanding Service Award. Peter is an English teacher at Belmont Preparatory High School in the Bronx where he also serves as one of the deans and the swim coach. For over ten years, Peter has been a champion of using nature as a classroom to help his students develop social skills and emotional resilience. 

 Peter’s dedication as a CatRock volunteer underscores his belief in each student’s potential. Each year he helps CatRock use the natural world as a backdrop to encourage youth to step out of their comfort zones. Whether he's introducing them to board sports, leading hikes in the backcountry, or helping students ride a bike for the first time, Peter’s encouragement is there—cheering them on and building community. 

 Peter is deeply committed to making the outdoors accessible and welcoming to all young people, particularly those who have limited exposure to natural environments. We are grateful to have Peter as one of our program leaders and inspiring mentors.

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