Ryan Graves, a senior at West Seneca East Senior High School, has been honored for his 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.
Graves is a volunteer with Vigilant Fire Explorers, where he trains for EMS, leadership and community outreach (storm help and welfare checks); OLV Nursing Home, where he transports patients to activities and works on his communication skills; a local food pantry, handing out food, setting up and doing prep work; as well as the Special Olympics’ floor hockey program.
At East Senior, Graves is a member of French Club, Fresh Start Mentor Program, French Honor Society, National Honor Society, varsity soccer, Crazy Guys of Ebenezer choir and the stage crew for the musical.
“It means a lot,” Graves said about his honor and giving back to his community. “It represents who I am and allows me to help people and make them happy. My biggest goal in life is to help as many people as I can and volunteering allows me to do that.”
The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, sponsored by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), recognizes middle level and high school students across America for outstanding volunteer service.
“The recipients of these awards demonstrate that young people across America are making remarkable contributions to the health and vitality of their communities,” said John Strangfeld, chairman and CEO of Prudential Financial. “By recognizing these students and placing a spotlight on their volunteer activities, we hope to motivate others to consider how they can also contribute to their community.”
