Local Youth Volunteers Make an Impact
Thursday, April 17, 2014
United Way Fox Cities'
Youth Board co-leaders are recognized as outstanding
youth volunteers at the 21st Annual Fox Cities Youth Alliance
Service Awards.
Contributor: Susan Perri, Marketing & Communications Assistant at United Way Fox Cities
What's the first thing that comes to mind when I ask you what
you think our area youth are doing with their free time? Would you
say video games? Social media? Getting into trouble? Well, let me
tell you, you are (at least partially) wrong.
Last Friday, I had the privilege of attending the Volunteer Center
of East Central Wisconsin's 21st Annual Fox Cities Youth Alliance
Service Awards ceremony to recognize outstanding youth
volunteers. Nominations for the award were submitted by anyone in
the community who wanted to acknowledge the amazing accomplishments
of area youth; nominees included groups and individuals who found
time to regularly volunteer their talents and energy at school, in
the community and within non-profit organizations, despite their
already busy schedules. Co-leaders from United Way's Youth Board
were among the nominees recognized for their on-going service
throughout the Fox Cities.
Ann Huelsbeck, a staff member of the Volunteer Center, and
point-person for the event, said, "I read through all of the
nominations and these students make me want to be a better person,
to help improve our community and teach my kids the value of giving
back. They are truly inspiring!"
Over 150 people, including parents, grandparents, teachers,
advisors, administrators and Volunteer Center board members,
attended the luncheon to show their support. Thirty-nine
individuals and eight groups were nominated for their outstanding
work. Each of the nominee's accomplishments were acknowledged by
Bill Jartz, news anchor at WBAY-TV 2, as they made their way to the
front of the room to receive a certificate and a round of applause.
I'm sure, like me, everyone who attended the event walked away in
awe of the youth in our community and moved by their commitment, at
such a young age, to giving back to those in need. If you ever get
a chance to attend this event or any other volunteer recognition
event, please seize the opportunity - trust me - it will be worth
your time!
To view more photos from the Youth Alliance Awards, please visit
the Volunteer Center of East Central Wisconsin's
Facebook page.
If you feel inspired to volunteer, please visit the Volunteer
Center's website service called "Get Connected" or contact the Volunteer Center
by calling 920-832-9360 to find an opportunity.