Horizon 2025 - Flipbook - Page 36
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS BEYOND
THE CAMPUS CONTINUED
Maddie Givens: 11th grade*
Young Adult Category: ages 16 - 24 years
Bronze Award 100 - 174 hours
“Volunteering at Moss Haven Farm Summer
Camp was a transformative experience that
deepened my appreciation for community
engagement and the importance of giving
back. Teaching children about healthy
eating and lifestyle habits provided me
with a strong sense of purpose and
responsibility. I witnessed the powerful
impact of small hands-on lessons — such
as demonstrating how to plant vegetables
or discussing the benefits of fresh produce — in sparking
curiosity and encouraging healthier choices. It was deeply
rewarding to know that my efforts were contributing to a
healthier future for these children while also prompting me to
reflect on my own habits and the example I set for others.
Andi Yung: 10th grade*
Young Adult Category: Ages 16 - 24 years
Bronze Award 100 - 174 hours
“Last summer, I worked for one week
at a theater summer camp hosted by
North Texas Performing Arts, assisting
children ages 6 to 8. I helped them
collaborate and develop their ideas into
a cohesive story, which they performed
as a show at the end of the week.
“This experience also significantly enhanced my
communication and leadership skills. Working with children
from diverse backgrounds required patience, creativity
and empathy — traits that I have since applied in many
areas of my life. Watching their excitement
as they tasted new vegetables or created
nutritious snacks reinforced the idea that
positive change often begins with education
and encouragement. Volunteering at Moss
Haven Farm not only allowed me to support
a meaningful cause but also reshaped my
understanding of community, wellness and the
role I can play in advancing both.”
Addison Carrier: 10th grade*
Young Adult Category: ages 16 - 24 years
Bronze Award: 100 - 174 hours
“From June 2024 to May 2025, I
completed more than 130 hours
of community service across more
than nine organizations. The primary
organizations I served were The
Storehouse and Operation Kindness.
I’ve had a love for animals since I was
young, so volunteering at Operation
Kindness was a natural fit, especially
working in the kitten nursery where I was able to apply
my school knowledge and learn more about the biology,
treatment and care of animals. The Storehouse is part of
my church community which made it convenient and gave
me the opportunity to serve alongside my friends. I also
volunteered with other organizations including Network of
Community Ministries, Ronald McDonald House of Dallas,
Minnie’s Food Pantry and Feed My Starving Children.
Jonas Ritz-Meuret: 11th grade*
Young Adult Category: Ages 16 - 24 years
Bronze Award 100 - 174 hours
“Community service has been an
incredibly rewarding experience for
me. I have had the opportunity to
explore various aspects of volunteer
work, including serving lunches with
the Salvation Army, working at food
pantries, participating in Boy Scouts
activities such as the White Rock Lake
clean-up and Eagle Scout projects, assisting at a major
sports event and supporting the varsity basketball team
at my school. Over the course of this school year, I have
completed more than 130 hours of volunteer service.
“One of the most memorable experiences was helping to set
up the pregame flags of the United States and Mexico during
the CONCACAF tournament at AT&T Stadium in front of tens
of thousands of fans. Witnessing the gratitude of those I’ve
helped and knowing that my efforts brought happiness to
others has been deeply fulfilling.
“In particular, my work in soup kitchens and food distribution
centers has shown me the powerful impact of dedicating
time to people in need. These experiences have inspired me
to seek out more opportunities to support my community
and make a positive difference in the lives of others.”
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NOVEMBER 2025
THE HORIZON
SHELTON SCHOOL
“My favorite part of the experience
was working with the kids. They were
incredibly sweet and full of creativity. On the final day, they
surprised me with drawings and heartfelt goodbye notes,
which meant a lot to me. I believe we made a meaningful
impact on each other and it’s an experience I will always
treasure.”
“One of the most meaningful moments I experienced
during my service was when a young child hugged me in
gratitude after I gave him food. That simple gesture had a
profound impact on me and reminded me why this work
is so important. Community service has not only shaped
my character but has also influenced my future goals. It
has inspired me to pursue a science degree with a career
aspiration in medical research
where I can continue helping
others in meaningful ways.
“One challenge I encountered
during my volunteer work was
the language barrier when
communicating with Spanishspeaking community members.
To overcome this, I’ve started
taking Spanish classes to
better serve and connect with
others in the future.”
