Some young people make a difference long before they even earn a driver’s license.
They volunteer at food pantries, organize donation drives, help neighbors, support local nonprofits, serve through their church or school, and look for ways to improve their communities. Their acts of kindness may not make headlines, but they make a lasting impact.
That’s exactly the kind of service recognized by the Youth Power and Hope Awards.
Sponsored by Indiana’s electric cooperatives, the annual program honors students in grades 5 through 8 who demonstrate outstanding commitment to serving others. Up to five Indiana students will each receive a $500 award, be recognized during Indiana Electric Cooperatives’ Annual Meeting in December, and be featured in Indiana Connection.
Boone Power encourages families to consider applying for this year’s awards.
“There are incredible young people throughout our community who quietly give their time and talents to help others,” said Mandy Saucerman, Boone Power’s director of communications. “The Youth Power and Hope Awards are a wonderful way to recognize those students and encourage them to continue serving their communities.”
Volunteer experiences can take many forms. Whether students have served the community through 4-H, Scouts, church groups, school organizations, or other projects with their friends and family, the awards celebrate the difference they make through compassion, leadership, and a spirit of service.
Applications are open and must be submitted by Oct. 2. Students must be in grades 5 through 8, and a parent or guardian must receive electricity from an Indiana electric cooperative.
To learn more about the Youth Power and Hope Awards or to apply, visit goiec.org/youthpowerandhope.
One family, a shared heart for service
Earlier this year, Indiana Connection featured the inspiring story of sisters Grace and Emma, whose commitment to serving others earned each of them a Youth Power and Hope Award. Their story is a reminder that a passion for helping others can inspire those around us — and that every act of service has the potential to create a ripple effect.
