By Rita Foil

Special to the Salisbury Post

For over 12 years, I have been a part of the Rowan County Service Above Self Youth Awards program.

There is no doubt that a great deal of love and commitment, dedication, hard work, long hours and sometimes anxious moments occur in working behind the scenes to make this magical event possible for the children in our community.

But nothing could even come close in comparing to the heartfelt joy experienced in watching the sparkle of a child’s eye as they walk across the stage, listening to a showering of applause while they receive awards, handshakes, smiles and even photos with Santa. They feel special, they deserve it, they are our children. A Service Above Self recognition can change a child’s life forever, and the unexpected surprise is that it can change your life too.

It only takes moments to complete a nomination form that has the potential to impact a young person’s outlook on life, giving them hope, and us hope, for making our world a better place.

So at 6 p.m. Dec.7, Catawba College’s Keppel Auditorium will be exploding with energy and anticipation. Lights will be turning on, poinsettias will be decorating the stage, tables will display stacks of framed certificates, awards and medals, Santa will be arriving, and the Knox Middle School Jazz Band will fill the room with sounds of our favorite holiday tunes.

All of this for our guests of honor — our children.

Is there a child you can envision experiencing this magical moment? Please nominate him or her today: http://www.rowanserviceaboveself.com/home.aspx Every child nominated receives an award. The deadline is Wednesday.

It doesn’t really matter whether they accomplished the unbelievable or whether it was something that appears simple. We want each child to continue on the path of realizing the powerful joy received in extending a helping hand to others.

Sincere thanks and appreciation to Cheerwine, Rowan Rotary, Rowan County United Way, and our silent partners for leading and sponsoring this event. But most especially, thanks to all of you for recognizing the service heart of a child and nominating them to receive a Service Above Self award. We are in our 22nd year and growing strong for children.

Should you have questions, you may call 704-633-1802.

Rita K. Foil works for  Rowan-Salisbury Schools and serves on the Service Above Self Steering Committee.