Mercy High School Students Earn National Awards For Community Service Impact
Joining Students Nationwide Who Delivered 2.3 Million Hours of Service and $78M in Community Impact
May 2026 – Mercy High School is proud to announce students have been recognized by the United Nations Association of the USA (UNA-USA) and InnerView in the Annual Community Service Impact Awards. The Kroger Co. is presenting the seventh annual Zero Hero Awards to students for taking action to help create communities free of hunger and waste. Michigan Community Service Commission is recognizing outstanding youth volunteers addressing community needs.
The Community Service Impact Awards program connects student service to real-world outcomes, skill development, and community needs. This year, students from Mercy High School were part of a nationwide effort of high school changemakers who collectively invested more than 2.3 million hours of service, equivalent to $78 million in community impact, addressing critical local and global challenges.
Through their efforts, students from Mercy High School made meaningful contributions to Good Health & Well-Being, demonstrating how local action drives global progress.
“Even as the world faces tough questions about the future of international cooperation, students are supporting the Global Goals with heart, hard work, and a clear path forward,” says Farah Salim Eck, Managing Director of the United Nations Association of the USA. “While the challenges of our time are real, seeing young people step up reminds us that change is always possible. We are so proud to partner with InnerView to celebrate these changemakers who are proving that you don’t have to wait for the future to make the world a better, more united place.”
"We are so proud to recognize the efforts of the Michigan youth who chose to give their valuable time to help others," said Michigan Community Service Commission Executive Director Ginna Holmes. "Youth understand the power of volunteering and the importance their actions have in strengthening communities. Their passion and strong desire to make an impact is inspiring.”
“This recognition reflects more than participation, it represents the time, care, and commitment these students are putting into causes that matter to them,” says Kristine Sturgeon, CEO of InnerView. “It’s an honor to support and amplify their work. They’re not only creating impact today, they’re building the skills and confidence that will shape how they lead and contribute for the rest of their lives.”
The three-tier award program recognizes levels of sustained impact: Merit (40 hours), Honor (60 hours), and Ambassador (100+ hours) of service during the school year, along with special recognition for efforts addressing Zero Hunger and Zero Waste. Beyond recognition, students gain a digital service impact resume to showcase their impact, skills, and commitments for college and career opportunities.
- Ambassador Awardees: Harshitha Arvapalli, Chandravadana Koneru
- Zero Hero Awardees: Harshitha Arvapalli, Chandravadana Koneru
- Michigan Awardees: Harshitha Arvapalli, Shaila Cranson, Chandravadana Koneru, Sophia Segars
About United Nations Association - USA
The United Nations Association of the USA (UNA-USA) is a grassroots movement of Americans who support the vital work of the United Nations in U.S. communities, colleges, and Congress. With over 20,000 members (70% under the age of 26) and more than 200 chapters across the country, UNA-USA members are united in their commitment to global engagement and their belief that each of us can play a part in advancing the UN’s mission and achieving the Global Goals. Learn more.
About InnerView
InnerView is a national student engagement platform that helps students capture their service, leadership, and real-world experiences in a personal impact resume that stays with them beyond high school. By connecting activities across school, community, and independent efforts, InnerView creates a complete view of student impact while expanding access to recognition, programs, and leadership opportunities. InnerView is a social impact organization working with students, groups, schools, nonprofits, and committed & compassionate institutions. Learn more at InnerView.org
About Michigan Community Service Commission
The Michigan Community Service Commission (MCSC) utilizes service as a strategy to address the state's most pressing issues and empowers volunteers to strengthen communities. In 2025-2026, the MCSC is granting more than $21 million in federal funds to local communities for volunteer programs and activities. The MCSC is housed in the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/volunteer.