2025 President Service Award Recipient: Capone Andrade

In a remarkable testament to civic dedication and service, Capone Andrade, a rising senior (class of 2026) at Greens Farms Academy, has been awarded the prestigious President’s Volunteer Service Award Gold Medal—the highest level of recognition granted through the national volunteer awards program established by the President of the United States. 

The President’s Volunteer Service Award, created in 2003, recognizes individuals of all ages who have made significant contributions through community service. The Gold Medal is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to volunteerism and community service. For high school students, this means contributing at least 250 hours of volunteer work over 12 months. Capone exceeded this requirement, dedicating his time and talents to a range of initiatives that have left a lasting impact on his community.

“I'm honored to receive this medal. When I found out, I was surprised because I never set out for recognition or any medal," Capone said. “All I wanted to do was help students overcome challenges and grow; to me, that's the greatest award.”

Throughout the year, Capone volunteered with organizations such as the Greens Farms Academy Community Service Club and his tutoring nonprofit, Academic Comeback Initiative, balancing service alongside academic responsibilities, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments. 

As for what’s next, Capone has no plans to slow down his efforts giving back to the community. As a rising senior, he will serve as the Vice President of the Community Service Club at GFA, while also continuing to run the Academic Comeback Initiative. He hopes to inspire other students to get involved and give back to their communities in any way they can.

“If there's an opportunity to do something good for somebody, I'll always go out of my way to do so,” He said. “Sometimes, all a person needs is a bit of support to get through their challenges — and if I can be that support, I will be.”