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Miami Teen Receives Prudential Spirit of Community Award for Hurricane Relief Efforts

Rebecca Farber, 18, of Miami, a senior at Miami Palmetto Senior High School in Pinecrest, initiated a statewide PTA-sponsored relief and education effort after four devastating hurricanes ripped through Florida in 2004.  When Rebecca, who lost her home to Hurricane Andrew when she was 4 years old, watched the reports of the 2004 storms, "I remembered the pain, fright, confusion, and anger I felt as a Hurricane Andrew survivor," she said.  But this time, as the only student on the Florida PTA State Board of Directors, Rebecca was in a position to take action.

She first wrote an article for the state PTA's monthly bulletin, offering information and guidelines on hurricane preparedness.  She then produced "Hurricanes Happen," a colorful children's brochure that explains how kids can prepare a hurricane kit and cope with a disaster, which was distributed throughout the state.  Even more important, Rebecca mobilized PTAs throughout the state to provide donations and support to schools, community agencies, and individuals affected by the hurricanes. 

"PTA donors and private businesses stepped up to the plate and worked feverishly to improve the lives of strangers," said Rebecca.  "These true acts of selfless goodness and generosity will always inspire me."