Erik Vataker
Erik Vataker is currently a senior that attends Morristown High School. He joined Kids to Kids as a high school junior, inspired by the many challenges that he has overcome as a child, including the difficulties of autism. Erik has overcome autism and has mastered his ability to adapt to uncomfortable situations in an acceptable manner. By learning how to do this he garnered self-confidence and is readily able to adapt to any challenges that come his way.
Erik has gained compassion towards helping other people with autism. His own experiences with autism allow him to understand the behaviors of people who have severe autism. He has true empathy and understanding of their unique mannerisms and their inability to control them. Erik has also taken inspiration from other experiences, including his experience on the ALL IN Student Board at Morristown High School, a fellow special needs organizations. Erik served on the ALL IN Student Board for three years and was recognized by the New Jersey State Board of Education for this organizations positive impact on the special needs community.
Erik takes pride in his schoolwork and has a strong work ethic which is reflected in his achievement of high honor roll throughout his high school years and he is a member of the National Honor Society. He was awarded the Jets Upstander of the Week Award for his hard work in school and within the special needs community. Erik is an avid swimmer and swims for the Morris County Swim Club and Morristown High School Varsity Swim Team. Erik also works at Burnham Park Pool during the summer months as a Certified Lifeguard. Erik holds a co-presidency position and Chief Engineering position with the Morristown High School Rocketry Club. Lastly, he has been a member of the Builders Club and Key Club throughout his middle and high school years.
When Erik can finally relax from his rigorous schedule, he tends to play video games to recharge for the days to come. Now that’s one remarkable board member!
