Written by Journalism Staff Reporter Catherine Golovin

Last month, Ava Monger became the proud winner of the Hayden SLP Medallion from the Georgia Kiwanis District. Ava says, “Going to the Kiwanis Governor Rally was a great experience!” The award she received there, in memory of Dr. Mel Hayden (a member of the White Oak Golden Kiwanis Club, twice Lt. Governor and a District Technology Chair), has been provided to outstanding members of community service affiliated clubs, including Allatoona’s own Key Club. Ava, who compiled over 100 hours of service in her two years in Key Club often seeks ways to interact with her community and encourage others to participate as well, demonstrating her “Heart to Serve,” (showing compassion and recognizing needs in her school/community) “Call to Lead,” (showing willingness to volunteer and assume leadership positions) and “Courage to Engage,” (showing eagerness to engage with others and build interpersonal relationship skills). Ava’s representation of these three Service Leadership Categories allowed her to win the prestigious Hayden SLP Medallion. Coach Elwood, the sponsor for Allatoona’s Key Club reported, “Ava is a go-getter-- if it needs to be done, Ava is first to say, ‘I got it, Coach.’ I am proud of her for this service award and know she will go on to do great things in life! Way to go Ava!”