Promise
A young woman aged 14-18 who demonstrates a commitment to high personal standards

Amy Elizabeth Dykman

Nominated by Brenda Downs

Brenda says, “At the age of one, it became evident that Amy had a severe speech impediment. Amy was a very a bright child and was able to communicate her needs to people in creative ways. Speech therapy began at a very early age and by the second grade she graduated from the program. After September 11, 2001, Amy, the same young lady who only a few years earlier was barely able to be understood when she spoke, would soon be known as a voice for many who could not speak for themselves. Amy began a campaign called “Bears Care and So Do We”; to collect bears for the children whose parents had perished that day. After eight weeks, Amy collected over 12,200 bears. She not only collected them, she even managed to get them shipped to New Jersey where they were picked up and distributed to the children of the 9/11 victims."

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