7/8 – Monmouth Beach Teen Gets Congressional Silver Medal for Community Service

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LONG BRANCH – Shannon Wedel ofMonmouth Beach was the recipient of a Congressional Award Silver Medal.
The Congressional Award is a public private-partnership created by Congress to promote and recognize achievement, initiative and service in America’s youth, ages 14 to 23. The Congressional Award provides a unique opportunity for young people to set and achieve personally challenging goals that build character and foster community service, personal development and citizenship.
To accomplish her goals, Wedel, who is a Shore Regional High School students, volunteered more than 250 hours of community service to Sandy relief efforts, Monmouth Medical Center and the local food pantry. Wedel also worked part-time at Caputo’s Bakery Shoppe, taught Sunday school, played on the soccer team and was a member of the school dance team.  She also planned a three-day, two-night trip to Delaware Water Gap.
To earn a Congressional Award, personally challenging goals must be set and achieved in four program areas: voluntary public service; physical fitness; personal development; and expedition/exploration.
There are six levels of the Congressional Award – Bronze, Silver, and Gold Certificates and Bronze, Silver and Gold Medals.
Wedel received her award Monday, July 8, in Long Branch from Rep. Frank Pallone, D-6th..