LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Matthew Kendi upon the occasion of his
designation as recipient of the President's Volunteer Service Award

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and pay
tribute to those young people within this great Empire State who have
made strong contributions to their communities and who serve as role
models for their peers; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Matthew Kendi upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the
President's Volunteer Service Award granted by The Prudential Spirit of
Community Awards program on behalf of President Barack Obama; and
WHEREAS, The President's Volunteer Service Award recognizes Americans
of all ages who have made significant contributions as volunteers in
service to their communities and nation; and
WHEREAS, Matthew Kendi, a senior at Roslyn High School, Roslyn, New
York, has given not only of his time and energies but also of his compe-
tence, intelligence and leadership and consequently has been designated
for special honor; and
WHEREAS, This esteemed young man has been called upon to contribute
his time and talents to countless civic and charitable endeavors and has
always given of himself unstintingly; and
WHEREAS, Matthew Kendi is a volunteer at Horseability, a not-for-pro-
fit organization that promotes the well-being of children, adults and
families with special needs through a wide range of horse-related activ-
ities; his numerous responsibilities include grooming and caring for the
horses, leading horses during lessons, and ensuring the safety of
clients during lessons; and
WHEREAS, Matthew Kendi has also worked closely with Gimme Ten, a
community service group that helps different organizations on a weekly
basis; he has been involved in such diverse charitable activities as
caring for foster children, cleaning cemeteries, and participating in
food drives; and
WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an individ-
ual for the benefit of others which Matthew Kendi has displayed through-
out his young life; and
WHEREAS, Volunteerism promotes family and community solidarity; most
importantly, people who volunteer their time in civic and charitable
endeavors inspire others to the call of volunteerism; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those who
enhance the well-being and vitality of their community and have shown a
long and sustained commitment to excellence certainly have earned the
recognition and applause of all the citizens of this great Empire State;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Matthew Kendi upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of
the President's Volunteer Service Award; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Matthew Kendi.