By Nicole Thomas
The award honors Cat, who founded the student led organization UNITY, for her exemplary volunteer service.
The President’s Volunteer Service Award is presented by the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program on behalf of President Barak Obama recognizing middle and high school students across the country 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.
As the leader of UNITY, Cat called on students in Oktibbeha County to come together in service to their community. Dozens of students joined together and pledged to serve during a kick-off event. UNITY’s members, now 120 students strong, have worked alongside each other to serve meals to those who were hungry and build homes for families who were without one. Their common desire to positively impact change in their community brought them together, building relationships with one another but also with their community.
“It is such an honor for UNITY to be recognized with this award,” said Cat. “UNITY”s student volunteers are so giving and I am so thankful for the opportunity to volunteer with such great spirits.”
Cat was also recognized during the 2014 Governor’s Give Awards luncheon with the Outstanding Volunteer Leadership by a Youth award for her volunteer service.