Avonian Writes 100 Thank You Letters to Healthcare Workers—Receives Presidential Recognition | Avon Old Farms News | About Us | Avon Old Farms

Avon Old Farms School is an institution that embraces tradition. One of the many traditions students engage in is a commitment to community service. Senior Service Day, Avon Outreach Club, Pushups for Patriots, and the Toys for Tots effort are just a few of the community service endeavors that students undertake.

Even with all of these service opportunities, there are still students who manage to go above and beyond. That is the case for Carter Barrett ’25, who spent this past summer writing 100 thank you cards to workers in the healthcare industry. This effort earned him the President’s Volunteer Service Award.
 

The President’s Volunteer Service Award was established in 2003 to recognize the important role of volunteers in America’s strength and national identity. The official government description of the award states: “This award honors individuals whose service positively impacts communities in every corner of the nation and inspires those around them to take action, too. The President’s Volunteer Service Award recognizes the valuable contributions volunteers make in our communities and encourages more people to serve. The award honors this American tradition and thanks those who inspire others to engage in volunteer service by demonstrated commitment and example.”

The award is given annually to individuals, families, or groups who achieve a certain number of service hours within a 12-month period. The award also can be given for cumulative hours earned over the course of a lifetime. Recipients of the award receive a certificate and a message signed by the President. The message Carter received concludes,

“On behalf of the American people, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to you for your volunteer leadership, and I encourage you to continue to answer the call to service. The country is counting on you.”

Although Carter knew he would be receiving the award, he says it was still a great feeling finding it in the mail. “It was really cool to see the official White House seal at the top. Plus, this award could be the extra bit I need to get into a really good college.”

The award was well-earned. Carter dedicated multiple hours a week during his summer break to writing letters, each one with its own unique message of appreciation. The program he was participating in is organized by a nonprofit called Best Seeds, and they have a set of guidelines that Carter was following for each letter. He wrote 20 letters a week—the maximum amount accepted per week—for five weeks. He explains why this was something he wanted to participate in.

“It doesn’t hurt, and it feels good to do it. It’s a unique way to meet service hour requirements for any students that need it, so I’ve been recommending it to others.”

In addition to his presidential award, Carter was honored at a Morning Meeting before March Break for his abundant act of service. Barbara Kaylor, Assistant to the Associate Head of School & Dean of Students, awarded him with a service pin. “He really went above and beyond,” Kaylor said. “We are extremely proud of him.”
 

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