When he was young, Christepher's mother struggled with drug and alcohol addiction and an inability to care for her children. Chris was recruited by neighborhood gangs, but was ultimately "saved" by a school counselor who later adopted him.

In his new family, Chris began to think of the kids in his old neighborhood who did not have the opportunities he now enjoys. "I decided to do something to help them and honor my parents," he said. He approached a police officer working at his former school and became a volunteer mentor. He soon put together a plan to teach kids swimming and soccer, conduct CPR and nutrition classes, and organize neighborhood "clean-ups". Other students have since signed on to help Chris, and his program, "School Buddies", now also offers after-school tutoring and recreation activities during school breaks. Chris plans to start a foundation soon, named after his adoptive parents, to provide college scholarships to children from his old neighborhood.

As a junior at Sunnyslope High School, Christepher was honored by Prudential as one of the National Top Ten Volunteers of 2003.

I practiced 3 to 5 hours daily which really paid off. I have appeared on The Bill Coby Show, in colleges, theaters, fairs, and theme parks. Performing with the Walt Disney Millennium was the highlight of my life. I love performing with the circus, because it makes me feel a part of something, and that I belong in the world. I've learned to have confidence in everything I do and not to shy away from any challenges.

Laura's search for suitable children's book or pamphlet explaining foster cared turned up nothing, so she decided to create her own. After spending many hours reading through materials written for adults, attending foster parent training courses, talking to foster parents and interviewing foster children, Laura wrote a 40-page book in both English and Spanish. She also wrote letters to 350 people in her community, which brought in $35,000 in donations to cover printing and distribution costs. Laura's book has been approved by the Florida Department of Children and Families, and distributed to numerous foster care providers and child welfare organizations. In addition, the Miami Dade County Public School System has distributed copies to school psychologists, social workers and counselors throughout the district.

As a student at Ransom Everglades School in Coconut Grove, Laura was honored by Prudential as one of the National Top Ten Volunteers of 2003.

Caitlin, an avid cross-country runner, began participating in local 5K road races when she was in the eighth grade, and after learning about Hope House, felt a benefit race would be a great fundraiser for the center. She met with a local running club to get information on how to organize a race, and then wrote hundred of letters seeking corporate sponsors and food donations. Caitlin also promoted the event by designing brochures and distributing press releases. Finally, she organized a crew of volunteers who assisted with race registration, water stops, and other tasks.

The first year, Caitlin's event raised more than $23,000. Her second race generated approximately $25,000.

Caitlin will turn the event over to another organizer, as she prepares for college. In future year's the event will be called Caitlin's Help for Hope House 5K Run, in honor of its founder.

As a junior at White Station High School, Caitlin was honored by Prudential as one of America's Top Ten Youth Volunteers for 2001.