By Jamie Miller
Ethan Harris, an 11 year old Bryant Elementary School student, has recently made a positive impact on the Boys and Girls Club in Bryant by winning the 2013 Maytag Dependable Leader Awards – America’s Vote competition. By winning the competition, Harris also won the club a $20,000 grant to be used to help improve the grounds and/or programs at the Boys and Girls Club.
He began the process of applying for the grant over a year ago and is finally seeing his labor pay off. According to Maytag, “America’s Vote is an extension of the Dependable Leader Awards, which recognizes Club professionals, members and volunteers who are committed to making a difference in the lives of youth by being dependable and exceptional role models.”
Voting was done online and Harris was voted America’s winner and joins 24 other Dependable Leaders across the county that were also honored this year.
“Ethan Harris is an exemplary Club member who actively cares for his Club and knows first-hand the impact it makes in the lives of youth,” said Suzanne Passmore, Executive Director Boys and Girls Club of Bryant.
In the past, Harris raised over a $1,000 for his Club by putting on a fundraiser that he organized and ran single handily through “It Just Takes One Kid’s Campaign.” He also assists staff members on a regular basis and has spoken to the Board of Community Directors about the Club as well.
“Ethan is excited and cannot believe so many people supported him,” said his mother Carla Harris. “He cannot wait to sit down with Mrs. Passmore and discuss how best to spend the money on the club.”
A reception to honor Harris, which will include representatives from Maytag and Boys and Girls Clubs of America will be held on Monday, Dec. 16, at 4:30 p.m., at The Center at Bishop Park.
