Manchester Teen Receives Gold President's Volunteer Service Award

MANCHESTER, NJ — A Manchester Township teen has received the President’s Volunteer Service Gold Award for her volunteer efforts in the community.

Jillian Peslak, a sophomore at MATES, the Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science, received the award for having volunteered more than 100 hours of community service at Camp Amity Acres Girl Scout day camp as a camp aide.

Manchester Mayor Ken Palmer presented the award to Jillian, according to a news release from Manchester Township.

The award included a medal and a congratulatory letter from President Donald Trump, the release said.

The President's Volunteer Service Award was started by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation in 2003 as a way to thank and honor Americans who, by example, inspired others to engage in volunteer service. The Council no longer exists, but the program continues as an initiative of the Corporation for National and Community Service and is administered by Points of Light.

To achieve the gold award, young adults ages 16 to 25 must record more than 100 hours of volunteer service with a certifying organization in a 12-month period.

Congratulations, Jillian!

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Manchester Mayor Ken Palmer presents Jillian Peslak with her award. Photo provided by Manchester Township