Matthew DeMarree, a YAP youth from Wayne County, NY, was presented with the 2014 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Student Service Award by Wayne Action for Racial Equality. Matthew was chosen for this honor because of his outstanding service in numerous organizations in his school and community. Most notably, he championed a DASA (Dignity for All Students Act) school program which, according to the NYSED.gov, seeks to provide students with a “safe, supportive environment free from discrimination, intimidation, taunting, harassment, and bullying on school property, a school bus and/or at a school function.”

Giving Back is one of the core principles of YAP’s model, and Matt provides an excellent example of how a youth can use their strengths and interests to contribute to their community. His compassion and generosity toward others has made him a positive force in his school and neighborhood.

“Matt displays a strong passion to help other people,” stated Mike Crespo, Director of Wayne County YAP. “He has overcome many obstacles and has faced many challenges, but has refused to let adversity stop him from reaching his goals.”

Congratulations to Matt on this honor and our best wishes are with him as he prepares to graduate from YAP!