The Elk Foundation talks the talk with phrases like Pass It On and Be the Future of Elk Country, and with the RMEF Youth Volunteer Awards (YVA), it encourages those who walk the walk. The YVAs are presented at Elk Camp every year to outstanding youth whose contributions of time and energy are an inspiration to both staff and volunteers.

The 2009 Youth Award recipients are as follows:

Molly Hughes

Southeast Region: Molly Hughes
At the ripe old age of 15, Molly Hughes of Walker, Louisiana, has already served as a committee member on the Baton Rouge Chapter for several years and plays an integral role in the chapter’s big game banquets. Molly helps display the merchandise and also assists with raffles and games. She is a leader for other young people by encouraging her peers to become involved with RMEF as well. Thank you, Molly!

Vincent Fortanas

Southwest Region: Vincent Fortanas
Vincent Fortanas, 14, from Temecula, California, is a committee member of not one, but two chapters in California. He has been the Youth Game Chair for the Corona and Orange Country chapters for the past two years. In addition to banquets, Vincent also volunteers for projects in the field, including helping to relocate elk on the Bakersfield Tule Elk Reserve. Way to go, Vincent!

Jahnsam Richardson

Northwest Region: Jahnsam Richardson
17-year-old Jahnsam Richardson is a committee member on the Heart of the Valley Chapter in Philomath, Oregon. He writes the banquet program and coordinates stage activities on banquet night. He also serves as the Kids’ Games and Raffles Chair for the chapter. Jahnsam has already logged hundreds of hours volunteering on projects in the field and encourages others to get their hands dirty working on the ground as well. Great work, Jahnsam!