The Melvin & Janice Douglas Family Community Service & Leadership Award was established to recognize and encourage young people who contribute meaningfully to the Upton community.
Named in honor of Melvin and Janice Douglas, the award reflects the values they demonstrated throughout their lives: hard work, generosity, personal responsibility, kindness, and a commitment to helping one’s neighbors.
The award celebrates students who understand that leadership is not defined only by a title. It is shown through consistent action, concern for others, and a willingness to accept responsibility for making a community stronger.
About the award
The Melvin & Janice Douglas Family Community Service Award has three primary purposes:
To recognize an Upton High School rising senior whose service reflects genuine care for others.
To provide the student with financial support and meaningful public recognition.
To help the recipient create a Senior Service Legacy Project that benefits the community and develops practical leadership skills.
Our purpose
Big Ideas, Real Impact.
Our guiding belief
A strong community is built by people who notice what is needed and choose to help.
Young people should not have to wait until adulthood to be recognized as community leaders. With encouragement, trust, and appropriate support, students can make important contributions today while developing the values and skills they will carry into the future.
The award is presented to a student before senior year so the recognition can become a catalyst rather than simply a reward for work already completed.
Selecting a rising senior allows the recipient to:
Include the honor in college, scholarship, and employment applications
Develop leadership skills during a formative year
Work with a community mentor or organization
Design and lead a meaningful service initiative
Demonstrate measurable community impact
Inspire younger students to become involved
The goal is not only to honor past service, but also to encourage the recipient’s next level of leadership.