VOiCEup Berks has recognized an exceptional group of students from Wilson, Muhlenberg, and Exeter School Districts who have earned The President’s Volunteer Service Award for their dedication to community service through Youth Volunteer Corps (YVC) of Reading.
This national award, presented on behalf of the President of the United States, highlights the incredible efforts of individuals who go above and beyond to serve their communities. These young volunteers exemplify leadership, compassion, and a commitment to making a lasting impact in Berks County.
This year’s recipients are: Gold Service Award Recipients (250+ service hours during a 12-month period for ages 16–25 or 100+ service hours during a 12-month period for ages 11–15): Mackenzie Bezner, age 11, Wilson School District, Kemi Ojikutu, age 17, Wilson School District and Athena Worley, age 15, Wilson School District.
Silver Service Award Recipients (175–249 service hours during a 12-month period for ages 16–25 or 75-99 service hours during a 12-month period for ages 11-15): Samantha Martinez, age 17, Wilson School District, Mia Worley, age 17, Wilson School District and Alia Hollock, age 13, Wilson School District.
Bronze Service Award Recipients (100–174 service hours during a 12-month period for ages 16–25 or 50–74 service hours during a 12-month period for ages 11–15): Charlotte Arner, age 15, Wilson School District, Alexis Dickinson, age 15, Wilson School District, Dana Gahuancela, age 17, Muhlenberg School District, Paul Head, age 14, Wilson School District, Norah Hoffert, age 17, Wilson School District, Micah Hollock, age 15, Wilson School District, Addison McKittrick, age 17, Exeter School District, Cadence Perez, age 17, Muhlenberg School District, David Ramirez-Garcia, age 18, Wilson School District and Sindura Sridhar, age 17, Wilson School District.
From organizing impactful service projects to supporting local nonprofits, these awardees have embraced every opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Whether it’s lending a hand at food banks, participating in environmental cleanups, mentoring younger peers, or creating initiatives to address pressing community challenges, their actions reflect an unwavering dedication to service. Each project they’ve contributed to has strengthened the community, inspired others to get involved, and created lasting change.
“These young leaders have gone above and beyond to serve their communities, embodying the true spirit of volunteerism,” said Christi Terefenko, Executive Director of VOiCEup Berks.
“This year’s recipients have demonstrated extraordinary commitment, compassion, and leadership, setting an example for their peers and proving that even small acts of service can have a profound impact. Their hard work and selflessness reflect the very heart of what we strive to achieve at YVC of Reading—empowering young people to lead, serve, and inspire positive change.”