The Orion Area Youth Assistance committee hosted its annual Youth Recognition Awards Dinner in April at the Knights of Columbus on Orion Road.
The committee honored 47 youth for their special service to the community. The students received a number of awards, including a proclamation from the Oakland County Commissioner’s office, and special tributes signed by Senator Michael Bishop and Governor Jennifer Granholm.
An award from Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard, and a certificate signed by Derek Mazur, chairperson of Orion Area Youth Assistance, were also presented to the students.
This program was sponsored by four local auto dealerships: Golling Pontiac GMC, Palace Chrysler Jeep, Skalnek Ford and Wally Edgar Chevrolet Buick.
The purpose of the program is to identify outstanding school-aged youth from the Orion community who have volunteered to help individuals, organizations, or have done a heroic deed without any compensation.
These students have displayed excellence in character and dedication, and displayed a desire to improve their community single handedly.
Among those in attendance to honor these young students were Oakland County Commissioner Eric Wilson, Lake Orion Board of Education President Leann Bartley and Lake Orion Superintendent of Schools Dr. Craig Younkman.
Representing Orion Township were township clerk Jill Bastian, township treasurer James Marleau, and deputy supervisor Jill Verros. The keynote speakers for the evening were the Honorable Nancy Tolwin and the Honorable Lisa Asadoorian from the 53rd District Court.
These guests spoke about character, community service and leadership Both Judge Tolwin and Judge Asadoorian delivered very powerful and encouraging messages to all in attendance.