Alivia Remick is one of only 10 Bucks County students to win the Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce 2020 Young Citizen Award.
By Gary Weckselblatt
Alivia Remick, a seventh-grader at Strayer Middle School, likes to volunteer - a lot.
Only 13, the former student council member at the Sixth Grade Center, gives her time to several organizations including Richlandtown Fire Co., East Swamp Church, Feed My Starving Children, her sisters Girl Scout meetings, and Quakertown Community Outreach (QCO).
“My mom has taught us very well about giving back to others,” Alivia said of her mother, Nicole Trovinger, who’s a social worker. “I have a house and so many things that some people don’t have. While I can’t give them a house, I can do things to help their situation.”
Alivia’s altruism has been noticed by adults. She is one of only 10 Bucks County students to win the Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce 2020 Young Citizen Award.
David Hammerschmidt, president of QCO, nominated Alivia for the award that honors young people for unique acts of courage, service and character.
“It’s not so much what she does but the spirit she does it with,” he said. “Anytime we have an event I turn around and there’s Alivia. She’s involved in everything. There’s something exceptional, unique, about her. No matter what she does she wants to do more. And she doesn’t need the supervision of an average kid. She’s almost like another adult in the room. She takes direction well and with humility.”
Indeed. Asked about the award, Alivia said “I’m grateful but when I’m asked about everything I do, I kind of felt like I was bragging. I don’t do it for awards. I just want to give back to the community.”
Ms. Trovinger said her daughter’s selfless volunteerism “is her passion. When she volunteers, she’s in it to win it. I’m very proud of her.”
Sixth Grade Center Principal Eric Thompson said Alivia is a "high-achieving student who approached each day with an infectious smile and enthusiasm."
As a member of student council, Alivia was part of a sub-group that led the school's "Pennies for Patients" drive that raised money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Strayer Principal Dr. Jennifer Bubser said she was excited to hear of Alivia's award. "What an honor to be nominated for this award!," she said. "What an amazing young lady to serve others the way she does! She is definitely Strayer Stronger and I am one very proud Principal!"
Mr. Hammerschmidt said in QCO’s five years, he’s had many young volunteers who have been wonderful. “No one distinguishes themselves as much as she does. She’s exceptional. She’s an inspiration to adults.”
Gary Weckselblatt, QCSD Director of Communications, writes about the people and the programs that impact the Quakertown Community School District. He can be reached at [email protected].