John Hancock Financial and New England Cable News (NECN) have joined together in support of outstanding New England teens engaged in community service. The Neighborhood Scholars initiative is being launched this spring to recognize young people who have demonstrated extraordinary service to a local nonprofit and their communities.

The purpose of this initiative is to encourage high school students to engage in community service. Beginning in May 2009, the Neighborhood Scholars program will honor four deserving high school students who lead by example. The students will be recognized for their volunteer work in nonprofit organizations that benefit the communities in which they live.

The benefits for the winning Scholars and the nominating organization are as follow:

In addition, NECN will develop an extensive campaign of public service announcements recognizing the Scholars and their nonprofits.