This month ACT announced the winners of the 2024 Youth Appreciation Awards, which recognize local youth for their leadership and efforts to make the community a healthier and kinder place.
Educators and youth-serving professionals were encouraged to nominate young people who demonstrate leadership by offering help to those in need, making a difference through service and activism, or showing determination and resilience in overcoming life challenges. The annual awards are part of Youth Appreciation Month, a statewide celebration during the month of May that recognizes young people for all that they contribute to our communities.
Four students received the Youth Appreciation Award:
Windsor K., a third grader at Fisher Elementary School in Arlington, received the elementary-level award. Windsor’s nomination commended her dedication to helping others through her volunteer work at Arlington Veggie Van Go events, helping distribute fresh vegetables to community members. “Windsor brings joy and smiles to those around her,” her nominator wrote. “Always willing to lend a hand, Windsor is a kind and compassionate doer.”
Sophia Y., an eighth grade student at Mt. Anthony Union Middle School (MAUMS), earned the award for the middle school level. Sophia’s nominator described her courage, leadership, and advocacy as demonstrated by her “commitment to the well-being of her peers and community.” Sophia helped organize a school-wide event on the impacts of bullying, which has “undoubtedly left a lasting impression on her school and inspired others to stand up against injustice.”
Riley B., a junior at Mt. Anthony Union High School (MAUHS), received the high school-level underclassman award. Riley was recognized for his efforts at Sunrise Family Resource Center, where he supports unhoused families with their transition into permanent housing. Riley was described as an “asset,” who demonstrates care, empathy, and trust-building with those around him.
Shea L., a senior at MAUHS, received the high school-level senior award. Shea was celebrated for her leadership as the manager at the Center for Restorative Justice’s free teen clothing store, Threads. Described as a “bright light,” Shea has helped create “a place everyone feels safe, utilizing creativity and her ability to connect with others.” Her nominator wrote that Shea is “without doubt, an incredibly valuable young member of our community.”
“All of the youth really go above and beyond, and it is truly impressive to hear about all that they do outside of being students and despite overcoming significant personal obstacles,” said Samantha Pearce, Community Epidemiologist at The Collaborative, who served as a judge for the Youth Appreciation Awards. “Each has worked to make their classroom, schools, and communities a better place—many paving their own way.”
Additionally, the following students were recognized with Certificates of Appreciation:
- Isabella S. (6th Grade, Pownal Elementary)
- Chase H. (6th Grade, MAUMS)
- Davin L. (7th Grade, MAUMS)
- Meredith D. (7th Grade, MAUMS)
- Leo C. (8th Grade, MAUMS)
- Sophia M. (8th Grade, MAUMS)
- Nieve M. (8th Grade, MAUMS)
- Ileana W. (9th Grade, MAUHS)
- Arrow S. (9th Grade, MAUHS)
- Strawberry M. (11th Grade, MAUHS)
- Jocelyn S. (11th Grade, MAUHS)
- Christopher S. (11th Grade, MAUHS)
- Alexa S. (11th Grade, MAUHS)
- Elizabeth O. (12th Grade, MAUHS)
- Faun R. (12th Grade, MAUHS)
- Ella S. (12th Grade, MAUHS)
- Arik G. (12th Grade, MAUHS)
- Kylan G. (12th Grade, MAUHS)
- Ceayra T. (12th Grade, Tutorial Center)
Students were recognized at school-based ceremonies.
Pictured above: Award winner Windsor and her nominator Kate Bryan stand with Hannah’s Pantry at the Battenkill Valley Health Center in Arlington.