When I was in high school, I was a Girl Scout working toward my Gold Award. I had to put in a certain number of community service hours in addition to my final project in order to be considered for the award. I don’t remember exactly how much time I spent in all, but I do know that I balanced the work between sports, friends, my part-time job, and babysitting, not to mention school …

Last night and this afternoon, Miss America 2013 contestants were recognized for the community service they do in their own communities. During Wednesday night’s preliminary competition, three states were singled out for their work with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Today, Miss Alabama Anna Laura Bryan received the Quality of Life award; a $6,000 scholarship that recognizes her outstanding achievements related to her personal platform: P.A.W.S for Autism–People and Animals Working Side-by-Side. Read more about Anna Laura and her platform in an upcoming issue of fourpoints!

I have been so impressed this week listening to contestants talk about their platforms and how they are making a difference on a local, and national level through volunteerism. Finding time for the many facets in a young woman’s life isn’t always easy or convenient, but as those who do commit to community service often find that volunteering is a reward in and of itself.

Written by: Erika Fifelski, fourpoints staff writer