The Youth United of Chelan and Douglas County held their annual awards banquet on May 22, where 53 Wenatchee High School students were recognized.

Senior Chandler Engel was awarded the Keisha Engley Inspirational Award, which goes to outstanding students in the program who may not have the most hours, but still deserve special recognition. Engel was the first student ever to be in the program all four years of high school.

“I am so happy that Youth United is growing in our valley,” Engel said. “I was greatly honored to receive the Keisha Engley Award for service. Youth United is a great program which is a great program which I hope continues to have success in bettering the Wenatchee valley.”

The high school program awards students with a varsity letter after fulfilling 145 hours of community service. Students who go above and beyond have the option to receive further recognition. Students may earn a Presidential Gold Award from the Corporation for National and Community Service (federal government) after 300 hours of volunteering. However, students who go above and beyond may receive the “500 Club” award after completing 500 hours of volunteer work.

Five students from WHS received the 500 Club award this year: juniors Teresa Bendito and Francesca Nevil, and seniors Bruce Cardenas, Jeremy Fisch, and Katie Jagla.

The United Way is an organization that connects people to volunteer opportunities.

Learn more about Youth United.