Whether he's serving lunch or singing a Temptations' classic tune to
Drake Center patients, Joshua Pruitt, 20, rarely dwells on the challenges of his past as he seeks opportunities to make others smile.
"I just love helping people," says Pruitt, a
YMCA
Character Award recipient who will graduate from Aiken College and
Career High School this spring. "I love to make people feel good about
themselves."
Though he also works a full-time job at Kroger and will be a full-time
high-school student until late May, Pruitt makes time to volunteer at
Drake at least once a week. He's been doing it for more than a year,
sharing his love of hip-hop and old-school Motown with elderly
residents. His singing, and dancing, is a big hit with residents. "When I
walk in the door they ask me if I'm performing," he says.
His volunteer experience at Drake and Llanfair, along with a fondness
for television medical dramas, led Pruitt to plan a future as a
registered nurse. "It's really emotional to see somebody with a very
hard condition," he says. "It's hard for them."
Pruitt's quick laugh and easy smile attract the admiration of those with
whom he works. He is one of 40 young honorees who will receive a YMCA
Character Award this year during an April 11 celebration at the School
for Creative and Performing Arts.
He got involved with volunteering through a YMCA leadership program,
where he started off coaching football and soccer. "I love to experience
new things," he says.
Pruitt learned early that life's challenges can be overwhelming. His
father died before he was 10, and he credits his single mother as a
great inspiration for his determination to succeed. Her belief in him
and his abilities keeps him moving forward when he's tired and tempted
to give up. But his father also plays an important role. "I think about
my father and he would want me to do well," Pruitt says. "I just keep
pushing."
Do Good:
• Be inspired. Attend the
2011 YMCA Character Award event April 11 and meet Joshua and 39 of his exceptional peers. Prices range from $10 for children to $25 for adults.
•
Become a member. YMCA membership rates for a family are just $150 per year, with monthly dues of less than $60.
•
Support double-dutch.
Donate to the YMCA. Showing your support is just a few clicks away.
By Elissa Yancey
Photo courtesy Joshua Pruitt
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