Four Monroe County students were presented with the Commission on the Status of Children and Youth 2016 SWAGGER, Students Who Act Generously, Grow and Earn Respect, award. Mayor John Hamilton presented them at a ceremony on Nov. 15 at City Hall, according to a City of Bloomington press release.
The four recipients are Mariah Busch, Ava Santner, Kira Axsiom and Becca Smith.
The annual awards recognize students who have a commitment to certain causes or have displayed actions that have improved their lives and/or the lives of others, according to the release.
Busch was the recipient in the 4-6 grade category for demonstrating acts of generosity at Girls Inc. of Monroe County. Busch welcomed a new Girls Inc. member who had an intellectual disability and helped her adjust to this new environment. Busch donated many toys and clothes to Girls Inc. for those in need.
She has a strong voice among her peehttp://www.idsnews.com:8080/article/2016/11/shelter-helps-homeless-survive-the-winters and stands up for what she believes, gaining respect from her peers and adults in the community, according to the release.
Santner, the 7-8 grade category recipient, was nominated for her commitment to support a project to make fleece blankets that could then be donated to non-profit organizations.
She demonstrates leadership skills by developing plans to completion of the projects, according to the release.
Axsiom and Smith were recipients in the 9-12 grade category. Axsiom was nominated for being a tutor to students who are wrestling with challenges in their studies.
She has dedicated time to fundraising activities that use her musical talents at school and in the community, according to the release.
Axsiom’s fundraising activities have benefitted charities such as Backpack Buddies, the Exotic Feline Rescue Center and the National Breast Cancer Foundation through her work as president of the Bloomington High School South Dr. Who Club.
Through her work with Prism Youth Community, Smith has shown an incredible commitment to serving the community, according to the release.
Smith is dedicated to encouraging education on issues that affect LGBTQ youth. Prism Youth Community has delivered training to thousands of youth-serving professionals on how to create a more inclusive space for minority students.
Smith has also volunteered with theInterfaith Winter Shelter, Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard, Hoosier Hills Food Bank, Middle Way House and the LGBT Aging and Caring Network, according to the release.
Aly Malinger
