Youth Volunteer Corps (YVC) of Reading, a program of VOiCEup Berks, is the recipient of the prestigious 2024 Trailblazer Award from the international Youth Volunteer Corps organization. The award was presented on October 19, 2024, during the annual YVC Youth Leadership Summit held in Virginia Beach, VA.
The Trailblazer Award recognizes YVC of Reading for its innovative programming and outstanding contributions to youth leadership and service. Each year, the international YVC organization commends affiliates that broaden the scope of what impactful service looks like, with youth at the forefront of planning and implementation. YVC of Reading stood out this year for developing new, trailblazing programs and becoming an example for the entire YVC network of over 30 affiliates.
“This year, we would like to recognize one affiliate in particular for blazing a new trail of YVC programming and being an example of what innovative service means,” said YVC representative Sarah Miller.
One of the most notable initiatives leading to this recognition was the Youth Mental Health Ambassadors program. Through this project, high school-aged volunteers are raising awareness about mental health, combating stigma, and promoting suicide prevention efforts. This group recently led a successful event that brought together over 100 students for discussion groups, activities, and training in coping skills. “These projects are imperative and truly lifesaving to youth,” YVC stated.
In addition to mental health awareness efforts, YVC of Reading has also implemented exceptional service projects focusing on STEM education, racial equality, and other critical topics. All of these initiatives emphasize youth-led planning and execution, ensuring that volunteers engage in meaningful work they are passionate about.
“By leading with youth and planning projects that youth are passionate about, we know that YVC of Reading programming will serve as a catalyst for our YVC network. Through them, we understand what is possible through service, and we are inspired to implement these topics in our own communities.”
Christi Terefenko, Executive Director and cofounder of VOiCEup Berks, expressed her excitement about receiving the award: “We are incredibly proud of our youth volunteers and the impact they have made in Reading and Berks County. This award is a testament to their hard work, creativity, and leadership. We believe in empowering young people to address the issues they care about, and the success of programs like the Youth Mental Health Ambassadors shows just how powerful that approach can be. We are honored to be recognized and look forward to continuing to blaze new trails in youth service.”
Since its founding in 2016, VOiCEup Berks has engaged over 3,000 young people from diverse backgrounds in more than 44,000 hours of service to the community through programs including YVC of Reading. YVC of Reading offers volunteer opportunities for youth ages 11 to 18 throughout the year, including Saturdays, after school, summer, and virtual projects.
YVC of Reading, hosted by VOiCEup Berks, is committed to fostering a lifetime commitment to service. The program’s success demonstrates how meaningful volunteerism and youth leadership can address important community issues while inspiring the next generation of changemakers.
For more information about YVC of Reading and upcoming volunteer opportunities, visit www.voiceupberks.org/yvc or contact info@voiceupberks.org.