Teen volunteer awarded youth of the month

12 February 2018

Orange Mayor Cr Reg Kidd has paid tribute to a local teenager who hasn’t let a disability get in the way of tackling his HSC and volunteering for the community.

The mayor this week presented Jack Larsen, 19, with the latest Orange Youth of the Month award.

Born with a brain tumour, Jack has an ongoing hand and leg disability.

“It’s fantastic that Jack hasn’t let his disability get in the way of his long list of achievements,” Cr Reg Kidd said at the award presentation.

“On behalf of the council and the community I’m pleased to say we’re extremely proud of you.”

During a break after his recent HSC trials Orange High School, Jack volunteered at Wontama’s Clancy-Weston Lodge, assisting in bus-trips and helping residents understand and use technology.

In one case he helped an elderly resident enjoy a Skype conversation with her son who lives in Laos. That resident is now making plans to have online conversations with her grandchildren who live in Switzerland.

Jack Larsen also volunteered to help with the running of the Cricket state carnival in Orange in January.

“I wish there were more people who would get as involved as you are as a volunteer,” Cr Reg Kidd said. “Jack’s disability has become a strength, as he’s put so much back into the community.”

AWARD : Orange Mayor Reg Kidd presents the latest youth of the month award to Orange teen Jack Larsen, watched by Jack’s parents Scott and Trish Larsen.