Pippen has been involved since the sixth grade in organizing, collecting, and distributing donations of books, clothing, and supplies to a school in a rural community in Namibia. He will spend time this summer delivering more items and teaching for two weeks in the school. He says his experience has been eye opening, and has given him a deeper insight into the unique challenges faced by those less fortunate. "I had no idea some people had so little, and that we could actually have a significant impact on their lives," he said. "I think that is what keeps me involved, always wanting to do more."

 

Borowczak has raised money through odd jobs since he was six years old  to provide gifts at the holidays to children through the Salvation Army's Angel Tree program. "Not everyone is as fortunate as we are," he said, "and there is so much that we can do to help other people. That's my motivation."

 
Sponsored by Prudential Financial and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), the awards recognize outstanding community service by young Americans. Two State Honorees, one middle school and one high school student, will be named in February. 

"Young people who contribute their time and talents to their communities are role models for all of us," said Prudential Chairman and CEO John R. Strangfeld. "We salute their dedication, their achievements, and their spirit of community."

Lakehill Headmaster Roger L. Perry praised the students for their volunteer service. "These young men  practice a lesson we hope all young people, as well as adults, will emulate-that volunteering within the community is an essential part of life."