Empathetic. Compassionate. Well-respected. Dedicated. Those are the words which spring to mind for J.P. Stevens High School Coach Bill McMullen when describing Aaron Bansal.

“He’s really a natural leader,” McMullen said. “The kids look up to him.”

Bansal’s “outstanding character is demonstrated by his community service commitment, which has shaped who he is as a person, one who is really concerned about the well-being of others,” according to the coach.

Among his many volunteer activities are his participation in Student Council and Key Club, through which he encourages others to be socially conscious. One of his club endeavors was to coordinate a book drive with the National English Honors Society. The effort resulted in gathering unwanted books, holding a book sale which raised “a significant amount of money,” all while spreading literacy by putting the donated books into the hands of new owners.

Bansal has demonstrated his leadership abilities through his work on the school Christmas toy drive and involvement in the Dedicated Beach Advisory Board, an environmental stewardship concern. He has also organized a school-based card donation campaign of veterans to “honor the sacrifices of those who have served this nation,” McMullen said.

“Kindness, an integral facet of Aaron’s character, is further exemplified by his dedication to preserving cultural ties through volunteering at the local temple. By staying connected to his roots and heritage, Aaron aims to create an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity,” the coach said.

Bansal’s dedication to community service, support of others, especially his teammates and fellow students, and his compassion has earned him recognition as the recipient of a Greater Middlesex Conference Kindness Counts award.

The J.P. Stevens senior was honored during the conference’s 23rd Annual Sportsmanship Awards Luncheon at The Pines Manor in Edison on Wednesday.

The Peter Fund and The Marisa Tufaro Foundation presented Bansal with a commemorative plaque and $500 to donate in his name to a charity of his choice that assists Middlesex County children in need.

The Kindness Counts Award was established to honor the memory of high school student-athlete Peter Bonn-Elchoness, who died suddenly in his sleep from a rare disease that causes damage to the heart. The 17-year-old from Niwot, Colorado was renowned throughout his school-community as a magnetic presence and gifted student-athlete who always looked out for others.

Shortly after his passing just 16 months ago, Peter’s family learned the full extent of his generous spirit through condolence letters they received from his classmates. Among other acts, Peter stood up to bullies, supported kids in crisis, and rooted for teammates and competitors.

His parents, Dave Elchoness and Eve Bonn, were told Peter saved lives. Dave and Eve established The Peter Fund, a nonprofit that encourages young people to mirror their son’s kind nature. Peter’s father, Dave, an Edison High School alumnus, traveled nearly 1,800 miles to return to his hometown to present Bansal and three others with the award.

For McMullen, Bansal’s earning the Kindness Counts Award is most fitting.

“Aaron’s journey reflects a holistic embodiment of extraordinary character, compassion, kindness and inclusivity. Though soccer, community service initiatives and cultural involvement, he has cultivated a spirit of responsibility, empathy and inclusion,” the coach said.

“While humbled by the impact achieved thus far, Aaron is inspired to continue this journey in college, driven by the belief that even small acts can collectively create a significant positive change in our communities.”