Montclair High School Students Margaret Borgen, 17; David Bourbon, 16; Jade Lytle, 18; and Kaitlyn Randall, 16, have been honored for their exemplary volunteer service with a President’s Volunteer Service Award.
The award, which recognizes Americans of all ages who have volunteered significant amounts of their time to serve their communities and their country, was granted by the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards Program. Montclair High School nominated these students for national honors this fall in recognition of their service.
Borgen was recognized for her tireless dedication to an organization that she founded, In Harmony Montclair, which hosts community events and develops opportunities for young people to give back in real ways. Borgen attributes her knack for service to her mother and grandmother. “I was inspired by seeing my mom and grandmother dedicate their time to volunteer work,” she said. “So many teens want to make a difference, and I saw this as a way that we could be creative and raise money for great causes to support our community.”
Bourbon dedicated his time and efforts to faith-based organizations by volunteering in feeding the homeless and acting as a counselor for youth at summer bible camps. Bourbon says of his service, “I was inspired by the need and desire to make a change in my community. I also credit my parents for encouraging the attitude for me to get involved.”
Lytle, who also received a Certificate of Excellence, spread her talents and time across different organizations in the Montclair community from her church to civic organizations. She credits her willingness to serve to her parents. “I attribute my inspiration for service to my parents and their consistent willingness to get involved in our local church, Unitarian Universalist Congregation at Montclair, and the Montclair community,” she said.
“These young people have exemplified the spirit of Montclair High School and the larger Montclair community in filling gaps in their community and taking the initiative at a young age to lend a helping a hand,” said Assistant Principal Reginald Clark. “Age should not deter from becoming a leader and each one of these young people has demonstrated the impact one could have if their energy is applied appropriately. I encouraged all of the honorees, and those that did not apply this year, to strive for loftier goals next year.”
In its 25th year, The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, sponsored by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, recognizes middle level and high school students across America for outstanding volunteer service. Volunteer activities were judged on criteria including initiative, effort, impact and personal growth.
“Across the United States, young volunteers are doing remarkable things to contribute to the well-being of the people and communities around them,” said Prudential Chairman and CEO Charles Lowrey. “Prudential is honored to celebrate the contributions of these students, and we hope their stories inspire others, too.”