J-bird is a senior in High School this year. He has worked really hard and has truly made me one proud Mama.

Today J-bird is being honored by the city we live in for his commitment to community service and good grades. He has been a teen volunteer and mentor for our local Little League for many years.

As a volunteer with the LL myself, J-bird has assisted me since he was little. About 5 years ago he began mentoring physically and mentally handicap children by teaching them how to play baseball through the LL Challenger program we developed. Every Fall for 6 weeks he would spend his Sunday mornings partnering with a child to teach them the sport he loves most.

This year he took it one step further and stepped up to Manage a tee-ball baseball team when we couldn’t find a volunteer parent to do so. He has devoted every Sunday morning to instructing a group of 4/5/6 year olds how to play baseball, what good sportsmanship is and how to be a team player.

Despite all his other commitments and senior activities, he has made sure to be on the field every Sunday since January to lead the group of 12 children. With undivided attention and commitment he is there giving his all.

I have been blessed to watch this child grow and mature into a young man. It has been a true honor to say I am his Mama.

At 12pm I will be accepting his college scholarship on his behalf as he is in Europe for a senior trip, learning and growing. The scholarship is being presented to a carefully selected handful of children from our area. All had to qualify under strict guidelines and include an essay.

I am both excited and nervous. I pray for the strength to get through the ceremony without tears. More than likely I will be balling my eyes out. I sincerely thank our Chief of Police and City Mayor and Council for believing in Jason and bestowing this honor upon him.

Jason, you are my superhero! Shine on because your future is so bright.