Winners of the 2008 Awesome Kids awards were honored at the annual KIDS Network Holiday Luncheon on Dec. 5 at the Santa Ynez Marriott in Buellton.
The KIDS Network is a county-wide organization boasting members from public agencies, the court system, law enforcement agencies, education, community-based organizations, school-linked programs, and parent groups.
“This year’s theme is ‘Awesome Services Make Awesome Kids,’” said Katharina Zulliger, KIDS Network coordinator. The theme emphasizes how giving to others or volunteering for a cause is important to a youth’s positive development.
North County honors went to the K-Kids from Ralph Dunlap Elementary in Orcutt. Matthew Flores, Carrie Hiramatsu, Cora Knowles, and Dustin VanPatten have provided service to their school, their community, and the world since 2004.
The K-Kids are affiliated with the Nighttime Kiwanis Club of Santa Maria and advised by teacher Michelle Boyd, also a member of the Kiwanis. Their past projects have included campus beautification efforts, social events, food and clothes drives, and efforts supporting the Red Cross and UNICEF.
Each year’s Awesome Kids award winners are chosen by a selection committee made up of members who remain anonymous to ensure the process is completely unbiased.
“There are so many wonderful kids out there doing great things to benefit our community,” said one of the selection committee members. “I truly enjoyed reading the nominations.”
Intern Nicholas Walter compiled this week’s Community Corner. Send items for consideration to mail@santamariasun.com.
This article appears in Dec 25, 2008 – Jan 1, 2009.