Nestlé Very Best In Youth Program Honors 23 Teens For Their Outstanding Achievements

March 28, 2011 - PRLog -- (GLENDALE, Calif.)  Twenty-three teenagers have been selected to receive the title of “2011 Nestlé Very Best In Youth” for their academic achievements and exceptional community service, ranging from humanitarian relief efforts to protecting endangered species.  In its 14th year, the program recognizes young people who have demonstrated leadership and initiative to positively impact the world.  

The Nestlé Very Best In Youth winners will be profiled in a book “Making a Difference Today for a Better Tomorrow,” which will be distributed to schools and community organizations in the U.S.  Additionally, each teen will receive $1,000 to contribute to a charity or project of their choosing and flown to Los Angeles, California in July for the red-carpet award ceremony.

Nearly 3,500 entries consisting of essays and letters of recommendation were submitted to Nestlé USA for consideration in this year’s competition.  In-depth coverage of this year’s finalists can be found at http://verybestinyouth.nestleusa.com/public/default.aspx

Nestlé is also proud to recognize two elementary school students from its national Adopt-A-School program as the recipients of the Nestlé Very Best In Youth/Adopt-A-School Essay Competition award.  Isaac Taylor from East Elementary School in Pendleton, IN and Taite Pierson from Eagle Rock Elementary School, Los Angeles, CA were chosen for their strong academic records, good citizenship and leadership skills.  Each 6th grader will receive $1,000 to donate to a charity of their choice, be profiled in the Nestlé Very Best In Youth book, and join in the Nestlé Very Best In Youth festivities.  

Nestlé USA has selected NBA All-star Blake Griffin as this year’s Nestlé Very Best In Youth spokesperson. Blake, only 22 years old himself, is passionate about using his success to be a positive role model for kids.  “It takes a strong work ethic to get people rallied behind a cause, and I am excited to join Nestlé in celebrating the inspiring accomplishments of these incredible kids.”

“Blake’s dedication to helping kids mirror Nestlé’s commitment to deliver Good Food, Good Life to the neighborhoods where we live and work through education and community programs,” said Kenneth Bentley, Vice President of Community Affairs & Workforce Diversity for Nestlé USA.  “These teens are dedicated and motivated to improve the world around them through impactful community programs and accomplishments,” continued Bentley.

Accomplishments like those of Emily Zauzmer of Dresher, PA., who created a web-based charity to raise awareness and funds for food allergy research.  Or Rujul Zaparde of Plainsboro, NJ, who has enlisted dozens of schools to provide easier access to drinking water in India though the purchase of water tube-wells.

About Nestlé USA

Named one of “The World’s Most Admired Food Companies” in Fortune magazine for fourteen consecutive years, Nestlé provides quality brands and products that bring flavor to life every day.  From nutritious meals with LEAN CUISINE® to baking traditions with NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE®, Nestlé USA makes delicious, convenient, and nutritious food and beverage products that make good living possible.  That’s what “Nestlé. Good Food, Good Life” is all about.  Nestlé USA, with 2010 sales of $10.4 billion, is part of Nestlé S.A. in Vevey, Switzerland — the world’s largest food company with a commitment to Nutrition, Health & Wellness — with 2010 sales of $105 billion.  For product news and information, visit http://www.Nestleusa.com.

About Blake Griffin

Selected first overall by the Los Angeles Clippers, rookie Blake Griffin is taking the NBA by storm and breaking records every step of the way. Known for his high-flying dunks and unwavering physicality, Griffin competed on the 2011 NBA All-Star Team, the first rookie All-Star voted to the game by coaches since Tim Duncan in 1998. He also took first prize in the Sprite Slam Dunk Contest and participated in the T-Mobile Rookie Challenge & Youth Jam. A highlight reel sensation equipped with the size, strength, quickness and skill to keep his household name buzz-worthy for many years to come, Griffin has transformed the Clippers into a must-watch franchise. A native of Oklahoma City, Okla., the 6’9” power forward attended the University of Oklahoma, where he was one of the highest rated and most decorated recruits in Sooners history. A media magnet, Griffin already has earned numerous accolades, including the Oscar Robertson Trophy, Adolph Rupp Trophy, John Wooden Award, Naismith Award, Sports Illustrated Player of the Year, multiple NBA Western Conference T-Mobile Rookie of the Month honors and many more. Follow Blake on Twitter @blakegriffin or go to http://www.blakegriffin.com to learn more.

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Nestlé Very Best In Youth Program Honors Teens For Outstanding Achievements. NBA All-star Blake Griffin Tapped as 2011 Spokesperson. Awards Recognize 23 Young People Who Have Demonstrated Exceptional Community Leadership and Academic Excellence. For more information visit http://www.nestle-verybestinyouth.com