Alexia Valentina, an Ignite Christian Academy junior from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, has been honored for her exemplary volunteer service with a Certificate of Excellence from The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, as well as a President’s Volunteer Service Award.
The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards honor young people across America for outstanding volunteer service. Certificates of Excellence are granted to the top ten percent of all Prudential Spirit of Community Award applications in each state and in the District of Columbia, while the President’s Volunteer Service Awards recognize Americans of all ages who have volunteered significant amounts of time to serve their communities and country.
After losing one of her friends to illness several years ago, Alexia started a charity called Love Lexi more than five years ago. Love Lexi wants to brighten the lives of children who are hospitalized and continue to find ways to spread kindness and joy to others. Her charity donates toys and other items to kids at Sanford Children’s Hospital. Love Lexi’s monthly wagon is used for prizes, birthday gifts, or as just a surprise for the day. Lexi works with her local high school and church to raise donations to fill the hospital’s Christmas closet for larger gifts.
Last year, Alexia also raised $5,000 for the Sanford Sports Science Institute to establish a fund that can help children with medical limitations to exercise or participate in a sport they otherwise wouldn’t be able to enjoy. Alexia hopes to continue raising money and awareness for this fund through her annual Love Lexi 5K Fun Run.
To learn more about this award or to apply, visit the official website of the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards.