TITLE: Congratulating Austin Taylor of Rockwall High School on earning his second President's Volunteer Service Gold Award.

SUMMARY: Congratulating Austin Taylor of Rockwall High School on earning his second President's Volunteer Service Gold Award.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Austin Taylor of Fate was awarded the President's Volunteer Service Gold Award in August 2020, the second time he has received this prestigious accolade; and WHEREAS, The President's Volunteer Service Award recognizes individuals who have given generously of their time and talents to improve their communities and enhance the quality of life for their fellow citizens; to earn the gold level award, recipients must perform more than 250 hours of service within a 12-month period; and WHEREAS, A junior at Rockwall High School, Mr. Taylor has distinguished himself by volunteering 885 hours over the past three years; he has already been presented with two presidential service awards and has qualified for a third; in addition to his involvement with such philanthropic groups as Lone Star CASA, Rainbow Room, Bikes for Tykes, and North Texas Giving Day, he has demonstrated exceptional dedication to STEM education and the nonprofit organization FIRST (For Inspiration & Recognition of Science & Technology); and WHEREAS, The founder of both a FIRST LEGO League team for elementary students and a FIRST Tech Challenge team for middle school students, Mr. Taylor teaches robotics skills, leads practices, and accompanies the young competitors to FIRST events; moreover, he has met with both state and federal legislators to advocate for STEM funding and awareness for Title I schools, recognition of STEM Gals Day, and the passage of the Christa McAuliffe Commemorative Coin Act of 2019, which will help fund FIRST programs; and WHEREAS, The son of Terry and Danna Taylor, Austin Taylor is an officer for Rockwall High's FIRST Robotics Competition Team 1296-Full Metal Jackets; he serves as a student ambassador and holds certifications in OSHA and CPR procedures to fulfill official duties at FIRST events; and WHEREAS, Austin Taylor's remarkable initiative and dedication have earned him the respect and admiration of his family and community, and he is truly deserving of special recognition; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 87th Texas Legislature hereby congratulate Austin Taylor on receiving his second President's Volunteer Service Gold Award and extend to him sincere best wishes for the future; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Mr. Taylor as expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Holland Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 236 was adopted by the House on March 18, 2021, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House