The spirit of community

Kate Herzlin, 17, a South Side High School senior, was among eight New York students who were distinguished finalists in the 2010 Prudential Spirit of Community Awards for outstanding acts of volunteerism and impressive community service activities.

Kate received her recognition — an engraved bronze medallion— for raising funds and community awareness as a volunteer for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. A blood cancer survivor, Kate has raised thousands of dollars during the society’s fund-raising events, organized other initiatives to support the society, created an informational and donation Web site, given speeches about her experience and solicited donations from family, friends and local businesses. In addition, she currently serves as president of the Junior Board of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Long Island chapter.