The North Strand Optimist Club of South Carolina is busy preparing for the Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade. And just for good measure, the Grand Marshal of this parade will be dubbed "Friend of the Year" in a nod to the motto of all Optimist Clubs.
Optimist International's motto is "Friend of Youth." The North Strand Optimist Club took this motivation to create the "Friend of the Year" award. Students up to age 19 can be nominated for this honor. Optimist Club member and Parade Coordinator Kelly Mathews said, "This contest is not about the person who is the most popular or involved in the most activities, but about a child who is an inspiration to those around them."
“We are looking for a heartwarming story," he continued. "We want your heart to be touched and our hearts to be touched. We want to know about a child who is special and has done something that has touched the hearts of those around them."
In addition to being named Grand Marshal and Friend of the Year, the honoree will also receive a $500 savings bond. Nominations should be in writing and should include the student's contact information, photograph and a story about leadership and attitude that depicts something special that the child does like visiting the elderly or caring for others. Nominations must be received by February 19, 2010. Please click here for more information about the North Strand St. Patrick's Day Parade and Friend of the Year contest.
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