By Gary Lloyd
TRUSSVILLE — A 14-year-old Hewitt-Trussville Middle School student has been honored for exemplary volunteer service with a President’s Volunteer Service Award.
Olivia DePew won the award, which recognizes Americans of all ages who have volunteered significant amounts of their time to serve their communities and their country. The award was granted by The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program on behalf of President Barack Obama. Hewitt-Trussville Middle School nominated DePew for national honors this fall in recognition of her volunteer service. DePew had extensive volunteer hours at Jessie’s Place, established in 1998 as a haven for homeless and hurting women and children seeking shelter while preparing to reach self-sufficiency.
“We are very proud of Olivia and the commitment she has shown to helping others,” said Principal Lisa Berry.
The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, sponsored by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, recognizes middle level and high school students across America for outstanding volunteer service. Prudential Spirit of Community Award applications were distributed nationwide last September through middle level and high schools, Girl Scout councils, county 4-H organizations, American Red Cross chapters, YMCAs and HandsOn Network affiliates. These schools and officially-designated local organizations nominated local honorees, whose applications were advanced for state-level judging.
In addition to granting President’s Volunteer Service Awards, The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards selected state honorees, distinguished finalists and certificate of excellence recipients. Volunteer activities were judged on criteria including personal initiative, creativity, effort, impact and personal growth.
“The recipients of these awards demonstrate that young people across America are making remarkable contributions to the health and vitality of their communities,” said John Strangfeld, chairman and CEO of Prudential Financial. “By recognizing these students and placing a spotlight on their volunteer activities, we hope to motivate others to consider how they can also contribute to their community.”
NASSP Executive Director JoAnn Bartoletti said demonstrating civic responsibility through volunteerism is an important part of life.
“These honorees practice a lesson we hope all young people, as well as adults, will emulate,” Bartoletti said.
Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune.com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd.