H.R. No. 851
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, Matthew Draeger of Paris, Texas, has been named one
of the top two youth volunteers in Texas by the 2013 Prudential
Spirit of Community Awards program; and
WHEREAS, Sponsored by Prudential Financial in partnership
with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, the
Spirit of Community Awards honor middle and high school students
who have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to serving their
fellow citizens; and
WHEREAS, A 15-year-old sophomore at Paris High School,
Mr. Draeger launched an innovative project known as Operation
Second Chance to aid disadvantaged families in the area; with the
help of friends, he approached local businesses and civic groups,
seeking items such as furniture, clothing, bedding, and toiletries
to be distributed to those in need; as part of the initiative, the
volunteers renovated several facilities that were used to store the
donations, and their campaign proved so successful that they
ultimately secured the use of half of a vacant factory to house
their inventory; to date, Operation Second Chance has collected
more than $1.3 million worth of goods and has benefited over 1,250
families; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Draeger's recognition for his charitable work
includes a $1,000 cash prize and an engraved silver medallion;
moreover, in May 2013 he will join the other state honorees in
Washington, D.C., where 10 individuals will be selected as the top
volunteers in the nation; and
WHEREAS, Matthew Draeger has set an inspiring example of
resourcefulness, generosity, and civic engagement, and he is to be
commended for his exceptional efforts; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas
Legislature hereby congratulate Matthew Draeger on his selection as
one of the top two youth volunteers in Texas by the 2013 Prudential
Spirit of Community Awards program and extend to him sincere best
wishes for a bright future; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for Mr. Draeger as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.
Lavender
______________________________
Speaker of the House
I certify that H.R. No. 851 was adopted by the House on March
27, 2013, by a non-record vote.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House