Commission on Children and Youth Honor Patrick Murphy

(Port Orchard) – The Kitsap County Commission on Children and Youth (Commission) will be having a reception for Patrick Murphy honoring his service to Kitsap County and celebrating his acceptance to the United States Air Force Academy on Thursday, June 3, 2010, from 3:30 p.m. — 4:30 p.m. at the Norm Dick’s Government Center in downtown Bremerton. The Commission is an advisory board to the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners (BOCC) whose mission is to advocate on behalf of the needs of children and youth in Kitsap County.

Patrick Murphy was appointed to the Commission by the BOCC as a ninth grader in February 2006. During his four years of service he has been involved in the legislative process, youth advocacy and leadership development. He also participated in the implementation of the “Kitsap Cares About Kids” Campaign, a three year community awareness campaign to involve the public in building relationships with young people through mentoring, volunteering and funding youth programs. Patrick’s skill at public speaking was put to work as he delivered speeches at City Council Meetings and large community events, challenging adults to make a commitment to building healthy children and youth in Kitsap County. Patrick will be graduating from South Kitsap High School in June and entering the United States Air Force Academy soon after.

Patrick believes that his participation on the Commission and his involvement in the community was beneficial in his acceptance to the Academy and encourages other young people to get involved in community service.

The Commission has positions open for young people between the ages of 13 - 18 who are interested in public speaking, networking with area professionals and being a voice for their schools and communities. For information on how to apply for appointment to the Commission contact Gay Neal at gneal@co.kitsap.wa.us or 360-337-4879.

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