Someone You Should Know: Teen Advocate For Veterans
SOUTH HOLLAND, Ill. (CBS) – Glennita Williams is only in the eighth grade, but she's been making a big difference in the lives of American soldiers serving overseas.
CBS 2's Harry Porterfield says she's someone you should know.
The 14-year-old has an adult-sized compassion for her fellow man. Glennita, an 8th grader at the McKinley School in South Holland, created America's Guardian Angels to collect and distribute care items to military personnel wherever they are stationed. Veterans also can be recipients.
"I had noticed that the troops they were craving something sweet. I collected over 1,000 Twinkies," Glennita says. "I packaged them up. Afterwards, they had given us cards and they said thank you."
Last month, the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards named her Illinois' Top Youth Volunteer and presented her with a medal at a school assembly.
Glennita appreciates the award but said, "I couldn't do this without the support and help of other people, like my parents, my principal, the community."
Michelle Coleman, McKinley's principal, praises the student.
"I think that she's a leader, someone who is inspirational to others," Coleman says.
The students at McKinley regularly contribute donations to Glennita's cause.
"It makes me feel very happy on the inside because I'm donating to some very kind people that are kind enough to fight for us," sixth-grader Anthony Butler says.
Since it began, more than $14,000 worth of merchandise has been collected and distributed through America's Guardian Angels.
Anita Williams, Glennita's mother, says a trip to Hines Veterans Hospital inspired her even more.
"When she returned from that trip she was overwhelmed and she felt like 'Mom, I have to do more,'" Anita says.
This month, Glennita will travel to Washington to represent Illinois at the National Prudential Spirit of Community Recognition Ceremony.
"The troops, they sacrifice everything for us," Glennita says. "Just to give them something, it's really wonderful."
