When Brainerd High School senior Kara Rud saw Laura Beilke, Youth As Resources director, walk into her guitar class Monday morning with balloons in hand, Rud knew Beilke was there to tell her something.
But Rud had no clue Beilke was going to name her the 2008 Youth Volunteer of the Year.
"It was kind of a surprise," Rud said. "I knew Laura was in class for me because I didn't think she knew anyone else in class. ... I'm honored."
Rud will be honored at the annual Distinguished Service Awards banquet Nov. 20 at The Lodge in Baxter. The awards program is sponsored by Brainerd Community Action, Brainerd Jaycees and the Brainerd Dispatch.
Brainerd High School senior Kara Rud smiled Monday after she was named the 2008 Youth Volunteer of the Year during her guitar class.
» Purchase reprints of this photo. Brainerd Dispatch/Steve Kohls
Beilke told Rud that YAR appreciates everything she does for the organization. Beilke said she couldn't think of anyone else who deserves the award as much as Rud does. Rud was nominated for the award by the Youth As Resources Board.
"We are thankful for youth like Kara who are giving back to make our community a better place," Beilke said in her nomination letter.
Rud, 18, the daughter of Paul and Claire Rud of Brainerd, joined YAR last year and is this year's president. Rud said she wanted to be involved in YAR because of its youth focus.
"I like that it helps kids in the community and that it's run by teens," said Rud. "The organization does good things."
Rud was the key coordinator of YAR's Brunch with Santa and she co-chaired Battle of the Bands. Beilke said Rud was instrumental in raising money through donations from new businesses.
Outside of YAR, Rud is active at Lord of Life Lutheran Church. Rud taught Sunday school from seventh- through 11th grade. She has participated in several mission trips through the church, including trips to Canada and South Dakota. This summer, Rud will participate in mission trips to New Orleans, Memphis, Tenn., and Peoria, Ill.
"We are thankful for youth like Kara who are giving back to make our community a better place," Beilke said in her nomination letter.
Rud also is involved in Teens Upstream, which is the church's high school youth group.
Rud volunteers at St. Joseph's Medical Center and the hospital's gift shop.
Rud participated in the Stroia Ballet last year and she was in the Central Lakes College play "Chicago" a year ago.
Rud also works at Northern Orthopedics, Herberger's and as a lifeguard at the Brainerd Family YMCA.
Rud plans to attend the University of Minnesota or The Art Institutes International Minnesota to earn a degree in fashion merchandise.
JENNIFER STOCKINGER may be reached at jennifer.stockinger@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5851.
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