Congratulations to Bertha Bostrum, AYSO’s regional commissioner of 14-I-1452 in Lake Park, FL for being selected by the National Council of Youth Sports as the first recipient of the Hershey’s STRIVE Award’s Volunteer of the Year.

This award distinguishes outstanding individuals who on a local level have made significant contributions to the pursuit of sports excellence, individual involvement, value and opportunity as a leader in their organization. They have proven themselves as a trusted friend, respected mentor, and a dedicated teacher to the youth as well as a hero within the youth sports industry.

An independent panel of judges has selected Bert for this award based upon her passion of service, length of time dedicated to the cause, leadership value, empowerment of others, and proven techniques. These planning, communication and motivational tools have made a positive difference in achieving her organization’s bottom-line goals. She is being honored for having accomplished the essentials of STRIVE, Sports, Teach, Respect, Initiative, Values and Excellence.

Bert’s untiring dedication to children and youth sports is most impressive:

• Transforming the community’s needs and spearheading an initiative to create a recreation program unifying and inspiring an entire community with a genuine humanitarian spirit, grace and humility;
• Bringing the values of athletics to boys and girls: self-esteem, dedication, teamwork, life skills, and more;
• Successfully and with sheer determination rebuilding fields and facilities creating a multi-sport complex;
• Creating a positive opportunity to get kids off the streets, out of trouble and playing organized youth sports.

Her leadership is living proof that one person- regardless of age- can make a difference in the lives of others. Through the years, she has touched the lives of thousands of young people, coaches, volunteers and administrators who have admired her determination and courage of conviction to the vital role sports play in a safer, more wholesome society.

The National Council of Youth Sports and Hershey’sâ Fundraising will be holding a special event especially for Bert in recognition of this great achievement. At this time, a check for $2,500 will be presented in her honor to the youth sports organization of her choice (the American Youth Soccer Organization). She will also receive a very special personal award in appreciation for her superior contribution to the quality of youth sports.

On behalf of more than 41-million boys and girls the NCYS membership represents, we thank Bert for her outstanding leadership and for providing meaningful opportunities for young people. She is an inspiration to all of us!