St. Francis student wins President's Volunteer Service Award

St. Francis High School senior Jonathan Burke recently was awarded the President's Volunteer Service Award for his exemplary volunteer service to a community in Ghana.

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 on behalf of President Barack Obama.

Jonathan was recognized for his service to the community of Accra, Ghana, in Africa. Since 2011, he has visited the country seven times and has volunteered at an orphanage; collected and donated more than 650 pairs of shoes as well as school supplies and backpacks; raised money to help fund the building of a nursery; and organized soccer games and clinics for the children.

"Over the past several years of visiting Ghana, what has impacted me the most is the fact that these kids have nothing but seem so happy," Jonathan said. "I feel fortunate to continue to be influenced by all of the friends I have made there. They have inspired me to live life a different and more meaningful way."

The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, sponsored by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, 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."

"Demonstrating civic responsibility through voluntarism is an important part of life," said JoAnn Bartoletti, executive director of the principals association. "These honorees practice a lesson we hope all young people, as well as adults, will emulate."