LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — The dedication and service of a Lima Central Catholic senior have earned her recognition as a Lee Volunteer Award winner.
17-year-old Addison Fay has distinguished herself through a wide range of volunteer efforts while maintaining her academic responsibilities. Fay mentors children three days a week through Big Brothers Big Sisters of West Central Ohio, works with the Autism Life Center and volunteers at local nursing homes.
"Our model at LCC is lead serve and excel, and so finding our way to helping little kids like I hope my littles, and even in my community, when I volunteer,” says Addison Fay.
Fay was nominated for the award by Trish Marshall of Big Brothers Big Sisters of West Central Ohio, who highlighted her compassion and ability to connect with those she serves.
"She's just very kind, very compassionate. She is able to connect on all levels,” says Marshall.
In addition to her local volunteer work, Fay has spent several years advocating as a youth ambassador for the Tourette Association of America. Diagnosed with Tourette syndrome at age 13, she uses her personal experience to educate others and promote understanding and inclusion.
“So, my littles, all, each one of them, I approached them, and I was like, you know, my name is Addie, you know, we did the whole Meet and Greet thing. And I said, Listen, I have this really silly thing, and it's called Tourette's syndrome, and I can't control it, and I said my brain makes me do and say little things that are really funny, and sometimes I never control but I cope with humor, and so we can laugh about it together. So if I make a funny noise or do something silly with my hands, I'm constantly just reassuring them that it's okay and that we can laugh about it, because everyone's made differently, but we're all perfect in God's image,” adds Fay.
Through her advocacy and outreach, Fay has helped shift perceptions of Tourette syndrome from misunderstanding to acceptance. She plans to attend college and pursue a degree in occupational therapy.
"I just think I have to find it in your heart to do what you need to do, whether it's for you, for your community, for others who can't do it for themselves, or just whatever your whatever your drive is, you have to go with it and go full force,” says Fay.
