ATHENS-Graduating Lindsay Lane Christian Academy senior Ava Whitmire said she learned a new role while participating in the Athens Mayor’s Youth Commission.
She learned the role of citizen, the type citizen who ignites a spark, she said.
Ava applied for and received the annual AMYC scholarship. As part of her essay answers, she said her tenure in Youth Commission taught her that “every citizen plays an important role in the community. This could be as small as casting a vote in our local election or picking up trash on the sidewalk.”
The Youth Commission is a program offered through the Mayor’s Office that teaches high school students about local government’s role and their role to be engaged and informed citizens. During her tenure, Ava learned about city departments and local agencies and attended City Council and Board of Education meetings. Ava also volunteered with groups like the Family Resource Center and Relay for Life.
“Now I know that I can volunteer, become involved in city government and feel close to my community,” she said. “Additionally, I became a firm believer that every person can make a difference. When we speak up, we are bettering our community. I believe community service ignites a spark in people.”
Ava says her favorite contribution was visiting the Birdie Thornton Center and making cards for the clients, who are dear friends to Youth Commission. The center serves individuals over the age of 21 who have developmental or intellectual disabilities. The experience inspired Ava to “serve more in the community.”
“When people help other people, it makes a town stronger,” she said. “I am a strong believer that community service is what keeps the world going.”
Ava plans to be involved in leadership programs at Maryville College where she will play softball, participate in the McGill Fellowship Program that promotes leadership activities and earn a position in student government. The scholarship will pay $200 toward college-related expenses.
“Ava is an example to not only her peers, but to all of us in Athens,” Mayor Ronnie Marks said. “She embraced her time on Youth Commission and really took to heart the importance of being involved and sharing her talents.”
Ava said the experience allowed her to grow an appreciation for every member in the community and the role each play.
“Now I know how city government operates, and I feel confident about voting and becoming involved,” she said.
