NORWICH – Now in its third year, the Norwich High School Youth Philanthropy Council held its annual awards presentation Tuesday night in the NHS Library and Media Center.

Youth Philanthropy Council co-advisor Sue Fertig introduced the 11 NHS students that make up the group – seniors Hayley Chwazik-Gee, Cleo Daoud, Lucas Follett, Katie Orioli, Victoria Parsons, Nathaniel Perry, Ethan Steers and Ryan Tomanocy; juniors Angelina Festarini and Patty McNeil and Sophomore John Antonowicz – who were selected following an application process and interview.

The goal of the council, according to Fertig and fellow advisor Elizabeth Monaco, is to get students involved with the non-profit and philanthropic process, teach local youth about the importance and impact it can have, develop leadership skills and better understand the critical needs in Chenango County. As a member, students participate in numerous discussions, write a mission statement and, ultimately, decide on a group of applicants who would share in $10,000 in Chenango United Way and the Foundation of South Central New York funding.

This year, the council decided on a trio of recipients it felt deserving of the grant moneys – the Norwich-based Children’s Center, the Oxford Youth Center and the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP).

The Children’s Center received $2,000 in funding, presented by Parsons and Steers. Children’s Center Director Darlene Alexander, who accepted the award, considered it was an honor for the center to be recognized at Tuesday night’s presentation.