Bruce Wilson, 17, of Dade City has been honored for his exemplary volunteer service with a President’s Volunteer Service Award. The award, which recognizes Americans of all ages who have volunteered significant amounts of their time to serve their communities and their country, was presented by US Senator Bill Nelson on behalf of President Barack Obama for the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program. Bruce participated in the Spirit of Community program this year as a representative of University of Florida, IFAS, Pasco County Extension 4-H program in Dade City, where he is an active member.

Bruce Wilson and Senator Nelson, a 4-H member and Past 4-H State President share their experiences with rocketry, one of Bruce’s 4-H projects and Senator Nelsons experiences going into space, noting that 4-H projects can be high tec. This was presented on March 16, 2013.

This Awards program recognizes young people across America for outstanding community service activities. The recipients of these awards vividly demonstrate that young people across America are making remarkable contributions to the health and vitality of their communities,” said John R. Strangfeld, chairman and CEO of Prudential Financial. “In recognizing these students and placing a spotlight on their volunteer service activities, we hope to motivate others to consider how they can also contribute to their community.”

“Demonstrating civic responsibility through community volunteerism is an important part of life,” said NASSP Executive Director JoAnn Bartoletti. “These Honorees practice a lesson we hope all young people, as well as adults, will emulate.”

Photos by Citizen Journalist Richard K Riley