On March 20, United Way of Ocean County presented 26 people with YAP Awards at Hemingway’s Café in Seaside Heights.
YAP (Young Altruistic Professional) Awards have been presented to individuals between the ages of 18 and 39 since 2010 in recognition of outstanding volunteerism and philanthropy in Ocean County, according to a press release.
This year the YAP Awards nomination process was adjusted to focus on individuals who have done extraordinary things in response to superstorm Sandy.
The names and affiliations of the local 2013 YAP Award Winners are:
Eric Alders, Jackson, conducted supply drives and donations; The Karate Dojo; Clarence Edward Aldrich, Jackson, first responder and ran toy drive; Knox & Co./Jackson Fire;
Cindy Conlon, Lakewood, volunteer; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ocean County;
Drew Gouveia, Jackson, volunteer in Jackson; Ocean’s Harbor House;
Lauren Stevens, Lakewood, volunteer; Catholic Charities;
“The generous spirit and ‘get it done’ attitude of these individuals have contributed greatly to relief and recovery efforts in Ocean County, and the YAP Awards were an opportunity for all of us to come out and support them as they continue to help and inspire,” said Linda Gyimoty, executive director of United Way of Ocean County.