Recognizing youth whose service and leadership are helping strengthen communities across Allegany County
BELMONT, NY — Allegany County Community Opportunities and Rural Development, Inc. (ACCORD) is now accepting applications for the 2026 ACCORD Youth Service Award. The award is open to students in grades 11 and 12 attending schools within Allegany County.
Every day, young people across Allegany County are making a difference through volunteer service, leadership, and a commitment to helping others in their schools, neighborhoods, faith communities, and local organizations. The ACCORD Youth Service Award recognizes one student whose actions demonstrate the positive impact young people can have in building stronger communities.
Whether mentoring younger students, volunteering with local organizations, organizing community projects, supporting neighbors, or leading by example, youth volunteers play an important role in addressing community needs and creating positive change. Their efforts strengthen the fabric of our communities and help build a brighter future for everyone.
“As a Community Action Agency, we know that positive change often begins with people who see a need and choose to take action,” said Lesley Gooch-Chrisman, Executive Director of ACCORD. “Young people throughout Allegany County are already helping shape the future of our communities through service, leadership, and compassion. The award, the brainchild of ACCORD Board Officer Joe Damiano, provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate a student whose commitment to helping others is making a meaningful difference.”
As part of the application process, students will share a service, volunteer, or leadership experience that reflects their commitment to helping others and describe the impact it had on their community.
One student will be selected as the 2026 ACCORD Youth Service Award recipient and will receive:
- A monetary award
- Recognition from ACCORD leadership and the ACCORD Board of Directors
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be enrolled in 11th or 12th grade
- Attend a school within Allegany County
Applications must be submitted by June 26, 2026.
Students may apply online at accordcorp.org/youth.
ACCORD encourages schools, families, community organizations, businesses, faith communities, and residents to share this opportunity and help recognize the young people whose service, leadership, and compassion are making a positive difference throughout Allegany County.
About ACCORD
Allegany County Community Opportunities and Rural Development, Inc. (ACCORD) is the Community Action Agency serving Allegany County. ACCORD’s mission is to connect people to resources that support stability and growth. Through programs, services, partnerships, and community-based initiatives, ACCORD works to strengthen individuals, families, and communities throughout Allegany County.
Guided by its vision of resilient communities and brighter futures for everyone, ACCORD collaborates with community partners to expand opportunities, address local needs, and support long-term well-being.
ACCORD’s programs and services are made possible through a combination of federal, state, and local funding, grants, community partnerships, charitable contributions, and volunteer support.
