Tierra Beard and Lucas Fortwengler, both of Louisville, are two of Kentucky’s eight recipients who will receive the award in Washington, D.C. next week.
“All my hard work is finally paid off, even when I wanted to throw in the towel, because I had stuff personally going on, but I kept fighting through it. With the help of my advisors, it’s really exciting that I have this accomplishment,” said Beard.
To complete her hours, Beard volunteered with a variety of organizations and even started her own non-profit organization which helps people deal with grief, but it was through Christian Care Communities that she met Betty Riggins. Riggins, 91, is a resident of Christian Care Communities.
“It means a lot to the seniors to have the young people coming going and participating in everything that we do,” said Riggins.
Lucas Fortwengler will also receive his Congressional Award gold medal this year, along with Beard.
“I’m so excited for my medals from Washington D.C. My mom helped me with my bronze and silver medals,” said Fortwengler.
To learn more about the Congressional Award gold medal, click here.