The El Dorado Hills Community Vision Coalition gathered the brightest young stars Jan. 23 at the ninth annual Youth Star Awards.
Thirty young people received awards for their community service.
“These (youth) are our future,” said Glen Swedelson, coalition board member. “They will be the leaders, the innovators. It’s important to recognize what they’ve accomplished so far and build on that.”
Calling the young people in the room “valuable assents in our community,” Vision Coalition Executive Director Raeann Jones and Swedelson took turns reading the recipients’ accomplishments — everything from tutoring underprivileged kids to helping the homeless to saving a life.
Carol Kovak with the Assistance League of Sierra Foothills attended the Saturday dinner to celebrate young volunteer Mary Heilman, who has given her time to help at the nonprofit’s shopping events and with senior programs.
“She’s a fine young woman, very responsible,” Kovak said.
The Louis Pasteur Middle School student brought her sisters and father to the awards ceremony. Proud dad Kevin Heilman said he appreciates her giving attitude both at home and in the community.
“She’s always been a very caring daughter,” he said.
“It always feels good helping out in the community,” Mary, 12, said.
Hands4Hope – Youth Making a Difference volunteer Madeline Simko, 17, echoed Mary’s sentiment and said she volunteers “because I can” and feels fortunate that she can give her time and help others.
The Youth Star Awards were held at Lakehills Covenant Church in El Dorado Hills with dinner provided by Foothill Grill, the culinary program at El Dorado High School.
Posted by Noel Stack
