For volunteering at Martha’s Pantry, Aaron Mabey has earned the U.S. President’s Volunteer Service Award bronze medal for young adults ages 16 to 25. Mabey, a GATE student, has since November 2016 lent his time and talents weekly to the local nonprofit organization that assists families living with AIDS and HIV. He works independently to fill orders, load food and clothing in cars and provide company to families who visit the pantry.
While Martha’s Pantry is a cause that’s important to him, Mabey is modest about his achievement. “It’s good to volunteer to help families and people,” he said. He plans to continue his volunteerism for as long as he can.
The prestigious national award requires an annual commitment of 100 to 174 volunteer hours at the bronze level. Recipients must be U.S. citizens. The awards are issued by approved certifying organizations.