Addison Trail sophomore receives President’s Volunteer Service Award

Addison Trail sophomore Allison Galvan has received the President’s Volunteer Service Award in recognition of her commitment to giving back to her community.

The award recognizes Americans who have volunteered significant amounts of time to serve their communities and their country, and it is granted by The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program on behalf of U.S. President Barack Obama. The program, sponsored by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), recognizes middle level and high school students throughout the U.S. for outstanding volunteer service.

Addison Trail Principal Adam Cibulka nominated Galvan for the President’s Volunteer Service Award this fall.

“Galvan is well deserving of this honor,” Cibulka said. “She’s a very involved student who goes above and beyond – not only for herself, but for her school and community as well. She’s a true example of what Addison Trail Blazer Pride is all about.”

For the last two years, Galvan has volunteered during her holiday and summer breaks at the Addison Community Switchboard, where she helps organize the food pantry and clothes. Galvan said she started working there to fulfill service hours for her confirmation, and she never left.

“Seeing families in need, including people I know, asking for help has been an eye-opening experience,” Galvan said. “I want to give back because I have so much support from my parents, and I see what others don’t have.”

Galvan said she was surprised and proud to receive the President’s Volunteer Service Award for her efforts.

“It felt great to be recognized, but giving back is something you should do whether you get recognized or not,” she said.

She added she hopes her work inspires other students to get involved.

“There’s nothing like the feeling of knowing you made a difference in someone’s life,” Galvan said. “When you help others, it makes you better as a person.”

In the future, Galvan hopes to attend Western Illinois University and become a judge.