Role-model youths

Prudential Insurance Co. has announced 104 state honorees as part of its Spirit of Community Initiative to recognize youth volunteerism.

Each of the honorees will receive $1,000, a silver medallion, and a paid trip to Washington, D.C., for national recognition.

The middle-school and high-school volunteers undertook anti-violence campaigns, community improvement projects, environmental projects, and mentoring.

One winner, Zachary Growe of Hampden, Maine, helped collect more than 800 used books for needy children. Another, Christopher Gardner, wakes up early every Thursday to deliver hot stew and coffee to homeless people in a city park.

Of the 20,000 teens considered for the award, 10 will be chosen as America's top youth volunteers.

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