The Darren Drake Memorial Fund

The Darren Drake Memorial Fund memorializes Darren Scott Drake, who died in a terrorist attack in Lower Manhattan on October 31, 2017. Contributions keep his spirit of fun, love and compassion alive and enable the Fund to support qualified students who wish to pursue a trade or technical career, the field of education in general, and other charities Darren valued.

In 2023, the Northern New Jersey Community Foundation’s Darren Drake Memorial Fund announces New Milford High School graduate, Ryan Hugerich, received its sixth scholarship award of $2,000.

Continue Darren’s Legacy

Darren Scott Drake (1984-2017) was a vibrant, optimistic and loving son, cousin, nephew and friend, whose life ended much too soon. An active and enthusiastic President of the New Milford Board of Education, faithful member of his church, Ascension Church of New Milford NJ, Darren directed many important programs, including those supporting high school students in pursuit of a career in the trade professions, and collecting home town memories, citations, and treats for New Milford military in combat in Iraq. His other activities included mentoring candidates wanting to serve on the New Milford town council, bike riding, and working for the Speaker of the New Jersey Assembly in Trenton. He also campaigned tirelessly for the preservation of open land against development.

A kind, dedicated, loyal and compassionate person, Darren touched many lives through his sensitivity, optimism, and boundless energy. He always placed others before himself.

In remembrance of Darren, and as a lasting tribute to his life-long love of and commitment to education, Moody’s Foundation has provided the principal gift to establish the fund, which will be administered by Darren’s parents.

Listen to this song written and performed in Darren’s honor by Michael Polizzi, Superintendent of New Milford Schools.