Volunteering is a huge part of Tony Miller’s life. Since 7th grade he has been participating in church-run functions, such as the drama group, which puts on a short skit every Sunday morning for the K-4th graders. He’s also made sandwiches for 363days (which feeds around 2,000 Minneapolis homeless throughout the year), written letters to soldiers in Iraq, and delivered food to families in need.
Overall, Tony’s favorite activity is being a counselor at summer camp. He really enjoys being goofy and fun around the kids, but at the same time teaching them lessons about good character and positive attitudes. For example, he shared a story about the summer after his junior year, when he dressed up in a fat suit and told made-up stories to the kids, who now refer to him as “Captain Munch.”
During the school year, Tony is an Interact board member and is involved with National Honor Society, both of which present him with plenty of volunteer opportunities, such as leading a group for Feed My Starving Children, helping elementary school students make Valentine’s Day boxes, and working at the courage retreat.
In and out of school, Tony takes an active role in his community. He even won an award for his work. Tony was one of two Minnetonka students to be awarded the Prudential Spirit of Community Award, which recognizes hardworking volunteers in the community. But to Tony, it’s not about the recognition—the satisfaction he gets from helping people and inspiring others to volunteer is plenty.