Doug Vail, Cartersville, GA
"With enthusiasm, excitement and a tireless work ethic, Emma's Emmbassadors will improve the lives of special needs children in Northwest Georgia."
Doug founded an organization called Emma's Emmbassadors when his daughter Emma was diagnosed with autism. The organization focuses on education and assistance for autistic children. Since inception, Emma's Emmbassadors provides funding for autistic children and their families who need extra assistance to support developmental progress. Last year, they raised $11,000 and were able to purchase sensory equipment and educational tools for a local elementary class. The foundation has set its sights on larger goals and the possibility of building a park or facility for autistic children to learn and play.
Jacob Antonio - Canonsburg, PA
"The combination of compassion and the willingness to give of oneself is a rare quality in anyone, but when found in a young person brings hope for the future."
As a young man, Jacob excels in academics and athletics, but what really sets him apart is his unselfish desire to give and make an impact on others. In the seventh grade, Jacob had a sudden onset of abdominal pain. He was rushed to the hospital, but no one was able to figure out what was wrong. He was forced to leave his school, where he participated in the gifted program and Student Council, and start online courses. Finally, weighing only 68 pounds, Jacob got a diagnosis. His gallbladder was not functioning. He had it removed and has begun his journey back into the life of a ninth grade boy. But, because of his experience, Jacob will never be your typical young man. He came out of his ordeal with a new perspective on health care and has become an active volunteer at the local hospice care center where his mother, Melanie Antonio-Greco, is a social worker. In the past year, Jacob has volunteered over a 140 hours.