A Symmes Valley High senior has received national recognition for her volunteer work.
Caity Lybrand, 18, of Waterloo, was honored with the President’s Volunteer Service Award on Feb. 7.
Lybrand said she listed her volunteer work, which included activities with 4-H and student council, when she applied for a national scholarship award.
Among the things listed were helping to pack canned food at the elementary school and raising money to take underprivileged children shopping.
Lybrand received a letter signed by President Barack Obama, who had just left office, informing her of the award, along with a certificate.
“It was a surprise,” she said. “I’m very honored and happy.”
The award is designed to recognize Americans of all ages who have volunteered a significant amount of time to their communities, and is granted by The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program on behalf of the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation.
The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, sponsored by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), recognizes middle level and high school students across America for outstanding volunteer service.
“The recipients of these awards demonstrate that young people across America are making remarkable contributions to the health and vitality of their communities,” John Strangfeld, chairman and CEO of Prudential Financial, said in a statement.  “By recognizing these students and placing a spotlight on their volunteer activities, we hope to motivate others to consider how they can also contribute to their community.”

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