The students gather on stage for recognition by the crowd. Photo provided

The Clarkston Area Youth Assistance presented their annual Youth Recognition Ceremony, April 24 at Clarkston Junior High School.
They recognized 202 Clarkston-area youth grades K through 12 for their inspiring accomplishments before a crowd of about600 parents, educators, and government officials.
Barb Pallotta, Independence Township clerk, served as emcee. Sponsor comments were given by the CAYA Chief Mary Schusterbauer. Keynote address was given by Staci Puzio, administrator of student growth and well-being for Clarkston Community Schools.
Affirmations describing why each honoree received their award were read by Pallotta and several Clarkston School administrators: Superintendent Shawn Ryan, Principal Brian Adams, Asst. Principal John Bennink, Principal Matthew Gifford, Principal Jennifer Johnson, and Principal Adam Kern.
Each student walked across the stage and received congratulatory handshakes from CCS administrators and other area dignitaries which included State Rep. Andrea Schroeder and Commissioner Tom Middleton. A dessert reception followed the ceremony.
The honorees were also given a portfolio of personalized, signed, certificates from area dignitaries.
The Clarkston Area Youth Assistance hosts the awards ceremony annually for the purpose of “Celebrating Youth Who Make a Difference!”
Their accomplishments included volunteering, personal growth and development, meeting and overcoming challenges, development of leadership skills, discovering and unlocking his/her talents and interests, development of problem-solving skills, advocacy for others, daily acts of kindness, respectful assistance and support for others, welcoming and including all students, making positive choices, and showing compassion and empathy.
CAYA is a community service organization strengthening families through community involvement.
The non-profit strives to identify the needs of the community and implement effective prevention programs.
Volunteers provide support in various projects and endeavors such as family education, youth recognition, camp and skill building scholarships, mentors plus, homework club, and pinwheels for prevention.
For more information, call CAYA at 248-623-4313 or email caya@clarkston.k12.mi.us.