Outstanding Youth Award 

This award is presented annually to an organization that has made an outstanding contribution toward the youth of this nation and exemplifies the spirit of the RC&D by “Making Things Happen” in their RC&D area.

Woodlawn Learning Center

Last year, the Woodlawn Learning Center of Hopewell, Virginia received a $500 mini-grant from South Central Corridors RC&D Council to establish a community garden on its schoolyard. Thanks to the strong community ties of the Learning Center and volunteer involvement in the project, that small amount of money was turned into a flourishing flower and vegetable garden tended by 300 preschoolers, along with adult guidance. Over the course of the year, the garden became not only a great community activity but an important part of the school curriculum and a favorite among its young students. The garden has inspired other schools that regard it as a model for a community activity to bring people together and provide fresh food and flowers. And the kids love getting their hands dirty and seeing the mystery of life unfold before their eyes. (Belinda Piercy accepted the award for the Center.)

Previous Honorees

2009            Jones County Turner Youth Foundation                       North Dakota
2008            Not Given                                                                                             
2007            Bemidji Art Teachers                                                      Minnesota
2006            Corey and Alex Ward                                                                          
2005            Delaware Bay Work Camp                                               Delaware
2004            Taylor Co Jr. Board, Campbellsville                                   Kentucky
2003            Kent Co Sec Intensive Learning Ctr. - Ramp                          Illinois