The United Way organizations in Chattanooga and Dalton have recognized several GPS students as award-winning youth volunteers.
In Chattanooga, senior Kaycee Ensign and junior Claire Harrison were two of three local students nominated for the Youth Who Volunteer award. Ms. Ensign, the president of the GPS Community Service Council, was named the winner at the annual banquet co-sponsored by United Way’s Volunteer Center. Ms. Harrison, who had been nominated once before, was also featured in the latest issue of CityScope Magazine in an article (p. 172) celebrating youth for their “spirit for giving back.”
In Dalton, the Kiwanis-United Way ceremony awarded the silver medal to 8th grader Rachel Raisin and the bronze to her sister, junior Nicole in their respective age groups. The girls, who have each volunteered nearly 200 hours in Dalton and Chattanooga, have been active in tornado relief, the Girl Scouts, and at non-profits.
In addition, Senior Sarah Shaw was named a Young Woman of Distinction at the American Lung Association annual luncheon. Nominated by teachers Bryant Haynes and Jenise Gordon, Ms. Shaw fit the description for the award, which goes to a girl “who sets herself apart as an individual outstanding in leadership, academics, and character.” Ms. Shaw is a National Merit Finalist who spends many hours volunteering for Habitat for Humanity. She is an active member of the Key Club and is coxswain on the rowing team.