83R8782 MGR-D
 
  By: Lavender 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.