Besaw receives President’s Volunteer Service Award

Caleb Besaw received the President’s Volunteer Service Award. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – For his exemplary volunteering, Caleb Besaw has been honored with a President’s Volunteer Service Award.

Besaw is a junior at James Clemens High School. The award recognizes Americans of all ages who have volunteered significant amounts of their time to serve their communities and their country.

The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program granted the award on behalf of President Barack Obama. James Clemens staff nominated nominated Besaw for national honors last fall.

“The lessons you learn, the people you meet and the feeling you get from volunteering are like no other,” Besaw said.

Since 2007, Besaw has volunteered with the Madison City Special Olympics Swim Team.

He collaborated with the Madison City Disability Advocacy Board and James Clemens teacher Daniel Whitt to produce a four-minute public service video. The video reminds motorists to honor parking spaces intended for individuals with disabilities.

“I’m always finding out great things that my community offers. I wanted to help because I enjoy working with others that may be different from me,” Besaw said. “It really helps open my mind.”

At James Clemens, Caleb belongs to the National Honor Society and Young Politicians. He has plays varsity soccer and serves as a kicker for Jets football.

His father Lt. Col. Craig Besaw serves in the U.S. Army, and his mother Jenn Besaw is an instructor at Dance Trance.

James Clemens Principal Dr. Brian Clayton said, “Caleb is the epitome of what we try to instill in our Jets. He is very creative, intelligent and has a servant heart. We are very proud to call him a James Clemens Jet.”

Prudential Spirit of Community Awards are sponsored by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, James Clemens counselor Lana Meskunas said.

During the fall, Prudential Spirit of Community Award applications were distributed nationwide to middle and high schools, Girl Scout councils, county 4-H clubs, American Red Cross chapters, YMCAs and HandsOn Network affiliates.

For more information, visit news.prudential.com.