The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program is the United States' largest youth recognition program based exclusively on volunteer community service. The program's goals are to applaud young people who already are making a positive difference in their towns and neighborhoods, and to inspire others to think about how they might contribute to their communities. The award honors middle level and high school students for outstanding service to others at the local, state, and national levels. Students chosen as Local Honorees receive a Certificate of Achievement from their schools or organizations. Those who qualify (50 hours of service for age 14 and younger, 100 hours for those older) also receive the President's Volunteer Service Award. State Honorees receive an award of $1,000, an engraved silver medallion, and an all-expense-paid trip with a parent or guardian to Washington, D.C., for national recognition events. National Honorees receive an additional award of $5,000, an engraved gold medallion, a crystal trophy for their schools or organizations, and a $5,000 grant from The Prudential Foundation for a non-profit, charitable organization of their choice.
You can apply if you are in grade 5-12 as of November 1 of the applying year; are a legal resident of any U.S. state or Washington, D.C.; have engaged in a volunteer activity that occurred at least partly during the 12 months prior to the date of application; and submit a completed application to a school principal or the head of an officially designated local organization by the last weekday in October.