Birmingham Student Wins Congressional Award

From the Office of Congressman Dave Trott: U.S. Representative Dave Trott (MI-11) issued the following statement after presenting Emily Prokop of Birmingham, Michigan with the Congressional Award Gold Medal, the highest Congressional honor for youth, in recognition of her outstanding initiative, achievement, and service to her community:

"Emily is the embodiment of what makes Southeast Michigan's youth so exemplary. Her outstanding service to her community and her initiative and drive to help those in need, makes me so hopeful for not only the future of Southeast Michigan, but our entire nation. As one of the next generations' most altruistic young people, I was proud to present her with the highest Congressional honor for youth - a distinction she, with over 400 hours of community service, has more than earned."

Emily Prokop describes her community service initiative: "I started my own charity named Trends for Teens. My organization sets up 'stores' in schools and shelters that contain new and gently-used clothing. Teenagers set goals for themselves and once they obtain those goals they use points to shop at the stores."

The Congressional Award Gold Medal is the highest Congressional honor for youth citizens. Those who earn this medal, which is struck by the U.S. Mint, must spend at least two years completing at least 400 hours of community service, 200 hours of personal development and physical fitness activities, and a four-night expedition or exploration.

Photo courtesy of the Office of Congressman Dave Trott: (Left to right) Paxton Baker, Chairman of The Congressional Award Foundation's Board of Directors, Emily Prokop, and Rep. Trott.