[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 69 (Tuesday, May 15, 2012)]
[Senate]
[Pages S3171-S3172]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      CONGRATULATING ASHLEE SMITH

 Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today I wish to honor a young 
Nevadan for being recognized as one of America's top 10 youth 
volunteers of 2012. Ashlee Smith, a seventh grader from Sparks, NV, was 
awarded the prestigious national Prudential Spirit of Community Award 
for her efforts to assist child victims of house fires and natural 
disasters. I am proud to congratulate one of Nevada's own for her 
leadership, compassion, and selflessness as she sets a fine example for 
students all across the United States who want to make a difference.
  Ashlee's home burned down in a devastating fire in 2005, destroying 
all that her family owned--including her childhood toys. Ever since 
this experience, she has dedicated her free time to helping children 
who are victims of natural disasters recover their lost belongings. At 
8 years old, she founded Ashlee's Toy Closet, a nonprofit organization 
that helps low-income children as well as those who have been affected 
by natural disasters. Over the past 5 years, she has collected and 
distributed more than 175,000 toys to children who have been affected 
by natural disasters. Ashlee's commitment to children in need is 
inspiring and reinforces the importance of serving our communities.

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  Having four children of my own, I understand the importance of 
creating an environment where our kids can give back to their 
communities. Encouraging our Nation's next generation of leaders to 
become engaged in community service will help ensure that they are 
active and positive contributors to their local community. We must 
encourage our Nation's youth to excel beyond the academic arena, 
demonstrate strong leadership skills, and show active initiative to 
support their communities.
  I am proud to stand with the citizens of Sparks to congratulate 
Ashlee on this exceptional accomplishment. As she continues to grow her 
organization, I hope that she will serve as an example for Nevada's 
youth and will continue building upon this experience in her 
professional and personal future. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me 
in recognizing an ambitious Nevadan who has helped make a difference in 
the lives of thousands all over the Nation.

                          ____________________