South LA teens rewarded for volunteerism

WILLOWBROOK, LOS ANGELES

The teenagers, recognized for their volunteerism, were given gifts.

"They've all been selected out of hundreds of young people because they actually volunteer in the community and provide service in the local community," said Betty Arnold of Xerox, one of the companies who participated in the event.

Others helping make this holiday season special at the club were Best Buy and everyone who donated to the Spark of Love Toy Drive.

"Lots of people are donating gifts, but they think about the little kids. That's so much easier. We overlook teenagers and young adults," said Betty Arnold of Xerox. "Our focus for the last four years in our involvement with the Spark of Love ABC7 program has been to focus on the young adults."

Many of the teens are not only giving back in the community, they are also outstanding students in the classroom. Some are in the foster care system, while others live in households where money is tight.

"I volunteer here at the boys and girls club. I've been here for 11 years. I grew up in the program," said Denzel Perry, who is also an assistant director for the United Peace Officers Against Crime organization with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.

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