Posted: 2/5/03

YSB taps Torrez, Kurtz for awards

The Forest Lake Area Youth Service Bureau is pleased to announce the winners of the 2002 On Behalf of Youth Award.

Individuals were nominated by youth and adults from the community and were chosen by an awards committee. The award is given to one youth and one adult who go above and beyond expectations working with youth or who is dedicated to helping youth in the community.

This yearís recipients of the 2002 On Behalf of Youth Award are Charlie Torrez, a senior at Forest Lake High School, and Howard Kurtz, a community volunteer. Torrez and Kurtz will be recognized at the Youth Service Bureauís Annual Meeting and Awards Event March 6th at the American Legion in Forest Lake.

The public is encouraged to attend. Tickets are $15 for adults and $11 for youth. RSVP by calling Michelle at 651-464-3685. Seating is limited. The RSVP deadline is February 24, 2003.

Charlie Torrez is a senior at Forest Lake High School. He attends school, works, and maintains a commitment to both his family and the community. He is able to balance all of these responsibilities while at the same time planning for his future after high school. When YSB staff have needed assistance with programs and activities, Torrez has always been ready to help out.

He has been involved in many of the YSBís volunteer opportunities over the past few years. He has been a member of the Youth Advisory Board and the Focused Youth Improv Theater Troupe. He has an ability to include others in activities and discussions while at the same time maintaining order. Torrez has taken a lead role as a camp counselor at Safe Kids Confident Kids Day Camp and Forest Lake Safety Camp. He has also volunteered as a program aide with elementary school children in Dream Esteem. Children look up to Torrez and he is able to have fun without forgetting to set limits and boundaries. Torrez is a strong leader who is committed to improving his community and positively impacting the lives of young people.

Howard Kurtz is a retired Chisago County Sheriffís Deputy who has never retired as a volunteer working on behalf of youth. Kurtz is committed to programs that promote safety for all ages of children. One of his goals is to make life safer and more enjoyable for kids by utilizing the talents of area seniors.

Each spring Kurtz is instrumental in organizing the North Branch Police Department Bicycle Rodeo. He works closely with the department to ensure that the event is a huge success for children. During the holiday season, Kurtz organizes a food drive where local children can attend a movie for free if they bring a non-perishable food item with them to the theater. Kurtz said he feels this gives children an opportunity to do something good for the community. He also volunteers with the Youth Service Bureau to present at the YSBís Shoplifting Awareness class.

Kurtz has a deep concern for youth and recognizes his life has brought him many experiences that may make a difference in the life of a young person. Kurtzí philosophy is ìif you pay attention to young people and spend time with them, they will know you care.î He has shown many young people that a law enforcement officer can be your friend.

The Youth Service Bureau is a non-profit youth and family services agency committed to prevention and intervention in problems affecting youth. Programs include counseling and support services, early intervention, self-esteem, conflict resolution, anger management, family communications, and other skill building services, and restorative justice/diversion services. Youth and adult volunteer opportunities are available.

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