Two Rosedalians, Derek Lysinger and Erika Suarez, were recognized by the Collaborative of Wyandotte County for their work in the community at a special program on Dec. 9. Derek was presented with the "Youth of the Year Award" and Erika was presented with the "Youth Worker of the Year Award."

Derek is a 15-year-old student who has performed nearly 130 hours of community service for RDA. He has participated in minor home repair projects, such as Christmas in October and KUMC M1 Volunteer Day, and helped make improvements at Whitmore Park.

He mows yards for elderly residents and vacant lots in Rosedale. He also distributes informational flyers, paints out graffiti, and picks up trash on a regular basis. Derek attends Holy Name School in Rosedale and is often viewed as a role model by his peers.

Erika, a second-year Family Advocate with the YOUTH SUCCESS program at Rosedale Middle School, provides invaluable services to youth and families. She serves as a resource for students, often simultaneously filling the roles of advocate, counselor, and mentor.

She communicates with parents about issues at the school and strives to bring their concerns to the attention of the administration. She is also bilingual, and so can assist as an interpreter and translator for parents, youth, teachers and staff.

The YOUTH SUCCESS program is a partnership between the KU School of Social Welfare, the REACH Healthcare Foundation, KCK Public Schools (USD #500), and Wyandot Center-PACES.

The Collaborative of Wyandotte County is a network of non-profit and social service organizations dedicated to community improvement. Members meet regularly to share resources and information and advocate on issues of mutual concern.

Congratulations to both Derek and Erika for your achievement. RDA and Rosedale are proud of you!