For Release: Tuesday, August 16, 2005
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

U.S. CONGRESSMAN JERRY COSTELLO PRESENTS CONGRESSIONAL SILVER AWARD
TO KIMBERLY SWIERENGA OF O'FALLON

Belleville, IL - On Tuesday, August 16, 2005, U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) presented Kimberly Swierenga of O'Fallon, the Congressional Silver Medal Award for the good work she has done for the betterment of her community and for the goals she has set for her own personal development. This presentation was held at the Congressman's District Office located at 155 Lincoln Place Court, Belleville, Illinois.

The Congressional Award was established in 1979 by the Congressional Award Act and is open to all young people ages 14-23. To earn the award, participants must set and achieve both personal and community goals. Since the award program started, more than 6500 Congressional Awards have been earned, representing well over 1.5 million volunteer hours performed in community service across the nation. The program is administered by the Congressional Award National office in Washington D.C.

Among her many accomplishments, Kimberly earned her Silver Medal while volunteering with Kiwanis International, serving at a local food bank, helping recreational city league games and assisting needy families unpack their belongings at their new homes. She also gained understanding of leadership and other development skills working through Toastmasters International at Scott Air Force Base.

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