Amanda Waas, a recent graduate of Palmetto Middle School, is a 1999 Prudential Spirit of Community honoree.

Amanda Waas, with parents, Karen and Martin Waas of Pinecrest.

This national award recognizes students who have performed exemplary community service. The award is presented in partnership with the National Association of Secondary Principals.

Since 1996, Amanda has served as Team Leader for the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Cancer Walk-a-thon. This year, she is coordinating a drive to fill backpacks with "teen level" activities specifically for middle and high school students to use while awaiting chemotherapy. She hopes to find businesses that will match or contribute to her fundraising efforts.

Amanda is a past mayor of her student council, editor-in-chief of The Lancer Newspaper and a member of the National Junior Honor Society.