WHEREAS, Orion Dunbar, a senior at Western Branch High School in Chesapeake, was recognized as a Distinguished Finalist in the 18th Annual Prudential Spirit of Community Awards for her impressive community service activities; and

WHEREAS, this prestigious award, presented by Prudential Financial, Inc., in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, honors young volunteers across America who have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to serving their communities; and

WHEREAS, as a Distinguished Finalist, Orion Dunbar, a member of the Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast in Chesapeake, was recognized for her enormous capacity for giving to and reaching out to those in need; and

WHEREAS, Orion Dunbar has raised more than $3,000 and donated more than 6,000 handmade hats through a program she created in 2009 called "Recycle Our Clothes for Kids"; and

WHEREAS, Orion Dunbar makes the hats out of recycled blue jeans donated by Wrangler Jeans and distributes her hats to hospitalized children and to children at a local home for people with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, the strength of communities, the success of the Commonwealth, and the overall vitality of American society depend, in great measure, on the enthusiasm of talented and enterprising young people like Orion Dunbar who are dedicated to helping others; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate of Virginia, That Orion Dunbar hereby be commended on her recognition as a Distinguished Finalist in the 18th Annual Prudential Spirit of Community Awards; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Orion Dunbar as an expression of the Senate of Virginia's congratulations on this distinguished honor and appreciation for her outstanding record of volunteer service, peer leadership, and community spirit.