David Kelley, a dancer on the Youth Premier team, was presented with the Congressional Award last month. Participants must set goals and meet certain requirements in four areas to earn this award: Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition & Exploration.
David worked on many dance-related goals to satisfy the Physical Fitness requirements. As part of his service, David reached out to his community through Northwest Harvest (a state wide hunger relief agency), Pediatric Interim Care Center (PICC), and local retirement homes. “My goal was to make sure people know I am available to serve.” Program participants are also required to be part of outdoor adventures. “I was fortunate to be a part of many [activities] including kayaking, river rafting, canoeing and mountain biking.”
David felt privileged to have former PBD Academy Director, Lynne Boudreaux, as his mentor. He was also supervised by a counselor from the community as he set his goals and made plans to reach them. “It was such a great experience in personal discipline, service, and making what I love doing–which is dancing–an avenue to bring joy to people.”
David has been awarded the Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards as well as a Bronze Congressional Medal. His Gold Congressional Medal is pending.