From a young age, Emma Grace Stelljes expressed a desire to help people in a way greater than many adults’ endeavors. In recognition of such efforts, the Lois Hornsby Middle School student received a Daily Point of Light Award in November to recognize her work volunteering with organizations such as Avalon Center.
“Ever since I was little, I knew I wanted to make a big impact on the world someday,” Emma Grace said. “Volunteering is my way to spread kindness and help others.”
The award stems from a program started by President George H.W. Bush in an effort to recognize ordinary Americans volunteering to improve their communities. More than 6,000 winners have been declared since the award launched in 1989. Emma Grace was the only person at her school to receive the award.
“It was a big surprise, but a wonderful one,” Emma Grace said. “This award meant to me that my dream of making a difference was coming true.”
Her community service began with volunteering at an assisted living center through a previous school, encouraged by her family and driven to make a difference. After she moved to the area and began attending Hornsby Middle School, she focused her attention on the Avalon Center, moved by their efforts to support women and children impacted by abuse.
In 2016, Emma Grace met with Avalon’s staff and organized a car wash, which raised about $850. They used proceeds to buy new toys and plan outings for the children supported by the nonprofit organization. Near the end of summer 2017, she worked with College of William and Mary students to organize a second car wash and created bracelets to help spread further awareness. That endeavor raised more than $1,000.
“She reached out and organized fundraising activities that were very successful,” said Priscilla Caldwell, the Avalon Center’s development and communications director. “She was strategic and approached the process with planning and collaboration with others, which I think speaks a lot to her maturity for a young person.”
Emma Grace said she plans to continue volunteering with a nursing home next, and she has no shortage of ideas for fundraisers and toy drives. She hopes her story might encourage others to follow her lead.
“My volunteer work has impacted my life greatly,” she said. “It has made me a better person and helped me to appreciate all that I have that others may not. I hope that when others read or hear my story, they will be inspired to volunteer and give back to the community, as I was.”
