GRUNGO LAW RECOGNIZES 2026 GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT
Request a Free ConsultationCHERRY HILL, NEW JERSEY – Grungo Law is proud to announce Whitney Smith as a recipient of the 2026 Giving Back to the Community Scholarship, awarded through the firm’s Grungo Gives program. This award honors students who demonstrate a deep commitment to service and a passion for uplifting their communities.
Through Grungo Gives, Grungo Law invests in individuals who are creating meaningful change through service and leadership. The Giving Back to the Community Scholarship recognizes students whose actions demonstrate initiative, dedication, and a lasting impact on the communities they serve. This year, the scholarship committee was inspired by the strength of the applications received and selected two recipients whose work reflected the heart of the program in different but equally meaningful ways.
“At its core, the Grungo Gives scholarship is about recognizing individuals who see a need in their community and feel compelled to do something about it,” said Christine Lafferty, Esq., Director of Grungo Gives. “What stood out about Whitney was the way she turned something she noticed in her own life into action that continues to help others. She didn’t wait for someone else to solve the problem; she built something that now feeds families and brings people together. That kind of heart and initiative is exactly what this scholarship is meant to honor.”
Whitney’s commitment to service began with a simple but powerful observation: many families in her community struggled to access affordable, nutritious food. Growing up in a large family herself, she witnessed firsthand how rising food costs often made healthy food less accessible. Rather than accept this as reality at just 12 years old, she chose to act.
In 2020, Whitney founded Smith Farms, beginning with a small garden that grew into an acre-and-a-half agricultural operation producing a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. What began as a personal effort soon became a larger mission focused on food access and community support.
As Smith Farms expanded, so did its impact. Through a partnership with Hazelwood Christian Homeless Ministry, Whitney donates hundreds of pounds of fresh produce each year to support individuals and families facing food insecurity. Her work has turned a personal initiative into a sustained effort to strengthen her community through agriculture and service.
Beyond her farm, Whitney has demonstrated strong leadership through her involvement with the National Future Farmers of America (FFA) organization. She served as President of the Cascade FFA Chapter and is also the Founder and President of Forged From Cascade FFA, the alumni organization supporting the chapter. Through these leadership roles, she has mentored younger students, supported agricultural education programs, and helped others develop both technical skills and confidence. She has also remained active in 4-H and the Hendricks County Farm Bureau, contributing to youth-focused agricultural and community initiatives.
Throughout high school, Whitney has continued to serve through volunteer work focused on food security, environmental stewardship, youth development, and community engagement. From food pantries and holiday drives to agricultural education efforts, she has consistently sought opportunities to make a meaningful difference through service.
“We are proud to recognize Whitney for the work she has already done to serve her community,” said Richard Grungo Jr., Esq., founder of Grungo Law. “She saw a need, put in the work, and created something that is making a real difference for families. That kind of commitment is exactly what we hope to encourage through this scholarship, and we’re excited to see where she takes it next.”
This honor includes a $1,000 scholarship to support Whitney’s educational journey and continued commitment to serving others. Grungo Law congratulates Whitney on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to the continued impact she will make through her leadership, service, and dedication to her community.
About Grungo Law
Grungo Law is a premier personal injury law firm serving clients in New Jersey and
Pennsylvania, representing families impacted by personal injury, catastrophic injury, nursing
home abuse and neglect, dram shop liability, dog bite injuries, and workers’ compensation.
Known for its client-centered approach, the firm combines the newest technology with keen
advocacy and was built on the values of family, honesty, communication, commitment,
continuous improvement, and community. Grungo Law offers free consultations and operates on
a contingency fee basis, ensuring clients can pursue a case without the upfront costs.
The firm is led by CEO and trial expert Richard Grungo, Jr., Esq., and includes Certified Civil
Trial Attorney José Hernandez, Esq., both recognized by the Supreme Court of New Jersey, a
designation held by fewer than 2.5% of lawyers.
Fluent in both English and Spanish, José Hernandez Esq., represents Spanish-speaking clients,
supported by a Spanish-speaking legal team that assists clients from the initial call through the
resolution of their case.
For more information about Grungo Law and its services, visit grungolaw.com.
Media Contact:
Grungo Law
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