Student honored for volunteerism

Thomas Hollis, 18, of Hot Springs, was recently named one of Arkansas’ Distinguished Finalists for the 2019 Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, a national program that honors young people for outstanding acts of volunteerism.

The Lakeside High School senior began volunteering for Our Promise Cancer Services after witnessing the obstacles faced by his immigrant mother as she sought cancer care for his grandfather. The program helps cancer patients in 21 counties with utilities, gas and other expenses. Hollis also worked on a grant to help raise $27,000 to house eight cancer patients during their treatment, tutors ESL learners, volunteers at a hospital and other events, and heads food and clothing drives.

As a Distinguished Finalist, he will receive an engraved bronze medallion.

The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals represent the nation’s largest youth recognition program based solely on volunteer service. All public and private middle level and high schools in the country, as well as other nonprofit volunteer organizations, were eligible to select a student or member for a local award. Local honorees were reviewed by an independent judging panel, which selected state honorees and distinguished finalists based on personal initiative, effort, impact and personal growth.