(
[[{"type":"media","view_mode":"media_large","fid":"39154","attributes":{"class":"media-image","typeof":"foaf:Image","style":"","width":"350","height":"233","title":"Power of Children Awards","alt":"Power of Children Awards"}}]]Each year, through The Power of Children Awards, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis recognizes youth who exemplify an extraordinary commitment to public service and social responsibility; youth who have planted the seeds of hope and promise in others. This annual event honors and further empowers students in grades 6–11 who have made a significant impact on the lives of others. Kaylee Shirrell was one of those award recipients in 2009 for her "Hats of Hope" project.
Guest Post By Kaylee Shirrell, 2009 Power of Children Award Winner
Being a first year college student is fun, but it certainly isn’t easy. As a full time honors student running a large service organization on the side, I have certainly had my hands full. It has been challenging figuring out how to balance school, friends, and service. The great thing about my organization (Hats of Hope), however, is that anyone can get involved, so I have been able to combine certain aspects of school, friends, and service.
Hats of Hope became an activity at IUPUI this year. I have introduced the project to members of the Psychology Club and Psi Chi as well as members of the Honors House. These groups are making hats for donation to the various hospitals on campus.
The scholarship I received through Power of Children Awards and IUPUI has been so beneficial for me. I want to be sure to give back through community service for the scholarship received.
Since college, I have had many great things happen for Hats of Hope. I filed Articles of Incorporation with the Indiana Secretary of State’s Office in November 2010, purchased a new website domain, and am working with a website designer in getting a new professional website built. Since I am a busy college student, students at Brownsburg West Middle School have stepped up to help me. I would never be able to do everything I do without all of the many volunteers that help me.
Also, after meeting a woman battling cancer and hearing her story and her gratitude for the hat she received, I have rented a post office box so hat recipients have a way to reach out to say thank you and share their stories. I often receive emails from the hat makers who have gotten thank you notes or letters, and it really warms my heart!
Contact Information:
Email: hatsofhopeinfo@aol.com
Mail: Hats of Hope, PO Box 885, Brownsburg, IN 46112.
---
Among other recognition, youth selected for a Power of Children Award receive:
•A $2,000 grant to further his or her extraordinary work.
•A four-year post-secondary scholarship to a participating Indiana-based institution of higher learning.
•Recognition in the museum’s The Power of Children exhibit for at least one year.
We are accepting applications until April 30, 2011.
