State Searches for Outstanding Youth Volunteers

Young volunteers across California that provide meaningful contributions to their community can receive thousands of dollars in awards and grants.

Prudential Financial is asking kids in grades 5 through 12 to submit applications by Nov. 1 highlighting their volunteer and fundraising work in their community. Now in its 17th year, the program showcases students that help the less fortunate, promote health and safety and protect the environment.

Last year, Blakely Colvin, 17, of Solvang and Tyler Page, 14, of Brentwood were honored as California’s top volunteers. Blakely raised $60,000 to benefit sick children by baking and selling cupcakes. Tyler collected more than $100,000 for a variety of children’s causes, including helping kids in Ghana who are sold as slaves.

“It’s an honor to recognize these remarkable students and share their stories of selfless community service,” said JoAnn Bartoletti, executive director of the National Association of Secondary School Principals, which is working in partnership with Prudential Financial.

Completed applications must be submitted to a middle or high school principal, the local YMCA or American Red Cross chapter, or any affiliate of the HandsOn Network.

After a preliminary selection at the local level, a state judging committee on Feb. 7, 2012 will pick two top candidates from each state, one high school and one middle school student. Each winner will receive a $1,000 award, a silver medallion and an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. with a parent.

Once in Washington, 10 students from the country will receive America’s top youth volunteers of the year awards, and receive an additional $5,000 in grants from Prudential Financial.

Young volunteers can apply at spirit.prudential.com or www.nassp.org/spirit.