Think you know a youth that has volunteered in an outstanding way?
Then get your nomination in for the annual Youth Recognition Awards Ceremony, sponsored by the Orion Area Youth Assistance Committee.
The ceremony will be held on April 4, but nominations are due by Feb. 6.
Last year, 45 Orion youth and their parents were invited to attend the ceremony.
According to chairperson Shelly Peterson, and OAYA caseworker Tom Swieboda, the awards are intended to recognize students that go ‘above and beyond? volunteer requirements.
‘We are looking for kids that are taking issues upon themselves,? Swieboda said.
Swieboda noted that volunteer workers aren’t usually looking for recognition at all.
‘The recognition surprises them,? he said.
The ceremony has been in existence for over a decade and is sponsored by local car dealerships.
‘It’s a relationship that’s worked really well,? Peterson said, noting that the businesses enjoy being involved in the community.
Elected officials serve as dignitaries at the event, getting to meet all of the honored youths and their parents.
‘It’s a nice event because it’s positive,? Swieboda said. ‘Everyone is represented.?
But a youth cannot be publicly recognized unless they’re nominated.
Nominees are selected on the basis of their voluntary services. Paid services are not eligible.
In the past, recognized youth have volunteered in things such as the March of Dimes, Special Olympics, and senior center assistance, just to name a few.
All nominees must either be a resident of Orion Township, or attend Orion schools.
The Youth Assistance Committee carefully screens all nominations received.
Applications can be accessed on the web at www.lakeorion.k12.mi.us/oaya/home.html or by contacting Kelli at the OAYA office at 693-6878.