HON. DEAN HELLER

OF NEVADA

IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE

May 15, 2012

Mr. Heller:  Mr. President, I rise today to honor a young Nevadan for being recognized as one of America’s top 10 youth volunteers of 2012.  Ashlee Smith, a seventh grader from Sparks, Nevada, was awarded the prestigious national Prudential Spirit of Community Award for her efforts to assist child victims of house fires and natural disasters.  I am proud to congratulate one of Nevada’s own for her leadership, compassion, and selflessness as she sets a fine example for students all across the United States who want to make a difference.  

Ashlee’s home burned down in a devastating fire in 2005, destroying all that her family owned- including her childhood toys.  Ever since this experience, she has dedicated her free time to helping children who are victims of natural disasters recover their lost belongings.  At eight years old, she founded Ashlee’s Toy Closet, a nonprofit organization that helps low-income children as well as those who have been affected by natural disasters.  Over the past five years, she has collected and distributed more than 175,000 toys to children who have been affected by natural disasters.  Ashlee’s commitment to children in need is inspiring and reinforces the importance of serving our communities.

Having four children of my own, I understand the importance of creating an environment where our kids can give back to their communities.  Encouraging our nation’s next generation of leaders to become engaged in community service will help ensure that they are active and positive contributors to their local community.  We must encourage our nation’s youth to excel beyond the academic arena, demonstrate strong leadership skills, and show active initiative to support their communities.

I am proud to stand with the citizens of Sparks to congratulate Ashlee on this exceptional accomplishment.  As she continues to grow her organization, I hope that she will serve as an example for Nevada’s youth and will continue building upon this experience in her professional and personal future.  Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing an ambitious Nevadan who has helped make a difference in the lives of thousands all over the nation.