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Volunteer New York! Honors New Rochelle Youth

TARRYTOWN, N.Y. -- Jake Gallin, a 13-year-old New Rochelle youth leader, was honored with the Prudential Spirit of Community Award during a ceremony Saturday at Volunteer New York's main office in Tarrytown.

New Rochelle's Jake Gallin, fourth from right, holding up award, was honored by Volunteer New York! for his ongoing work for military families.

New Rochelle's Jake Gallin, fourth from right, holding up award, was honored by Volunteer New York! for his ongoing work for military families.

Photo Credit: Contributed

Gallin's track record of support for military records earned him the award, which is given to the two best volunteers in the state. Volunteer New York! executive director Alisa H. Kesten nominated Gallin for the award.

“It has been a point of privilege, pride and astonishment to have watched Jake for the past three years grow up to be a force for good in our community, the USO and for so many deserving military families,” says Kesten. “I look forward to see what he does next.”

Gallin started Stars for Cars, which sells star-shaped magnetic car decals honoring families of soldiers who have served in the military. The organization has raised over $12,000 for the USO.

He also wrote “3 Holidays Announcement,” honoring Patriot Day, Veterans Day and Memorial Day and the families who have served.

Over 100 schools and districts statewide have begun to use the announcement to mark their respective holidays.

“This award provides me with a moment where I can educate people about the importance of volunteerism. The Blue Star and Gold Star military families volunteer for us every single day. I do what I do for them and in honor of them,” says Gallin.

Gallin will tour Washington, D.C., next month as part of the contingent of nationwide honorees.

For more information on Stars for Cars, go to starsforcars.org, and for more information on Volunteer New York!, go to volunteernewyork.org.

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