State Honoree

Rachel Haas, 12, of Kissimmee, Florida, a seventh-grader at Kissimmee Charter Academy, volunteers at a sports camp for children with intellectual disabilities, started a student club focused on autism, organized a walking team to raise money and awareness for autism, and serves as a bowling partner of a Special Olympics athlete. Rachel's volunteer work was inspired by two cousins who have autism, and by an aunt who works with special-needs children. "I have decided to make it my mission to help find a cure for autism, or in the very least, to better the lives of affected children," said Rachel. She started out by spending her summer volunteering at Special Olympics Camp Shriver, and then realized that she could do more. At the camp, Rachel met a young bowler and decided to continue working with him through the Special Olympics unified sports program. In addition, Rachel chartered a chapter of Autism Speaks at her school, and formed a team that has raised $700 to date for the Walk for Autism. Despite being diagnosed recently with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, Rachel plans to continue her mission. "Because of JRA, I have a better understanding and sensitivity to people with disabilities," she said.