A McMath student was recently recognized for her decade-long contribution to the Richmond Christmas Fund and the community.
Ava Koldenhof, who was named Richmond Christmas Fund's first youth ambassador last year, received a $5,000 prize from Mazda Canada and Signature Mazda earlier this month.
"I'm really ecstatic. I was really surprised I received it, and it definitely took a moment to set in, but now I'm really feeling it," said the 17-year-old.
"I'm overjoyed, really, it's amazing."
Koldenhof began making Christmas angels when she was eight years old and made her first donation to the Christmas Fund at nine years old.
Now, almost 10 years later, she has raised around $12,000 for the initiative, surpassing her initial goal of $10,000.
The joy from donating has kept Koldenhof going throughout the years, but her connection with the community is also important to her work.
"I've gotten some amazing feedback and support from my community and people all around me, and they've kept me motivated for sure."
She explained being a part of one's community and supporting others is "a great pastime and something you can get involved with.
"And I think it also teaches you a lot about yourself and a lot about the environment you surround yourself in."
The prize is part of Mazda Canada's Rising Legends campaign to recognize individuals who "have a presence in the community with charities or community events," explained Deryl Griffith, partner at Signature Mazda Richmond.
"Basically someone who is doing amazing things in the community. Ava is that amazing person," he added.
Koldenhof will be donating a portion of the prize money to the Richmond Christmas Fund and the rest will be used to fund her education.
"I'm just really excited about continuing all my work," she said.
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