"I make a difference."

The slogan on one of Lee Karasik's favorite pins sums up his philosophy on life and celebrates his dedication to volunteering with the American Red Cross in Greater New York. A resident of Kauneonga Lake, 17-year-old Lee will enter his senior year at Monticello High School in the fall and has been volunteering with the Sullivan chapter of the Red Cross since September 12, 2001.

"September 11 inspired me to get involved and give back. I immediately got in touch with the Red Cross and volunteered every day for the first month after 9/11," Lee said.

Lee started out helping with administrative tasks during nights and weekends and later completed a slew of Red Cross training classes including Adult CPR with Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) and First Aid, as well as disaster preparedness courses in mass care, logistics and shelter operations. He has not only seized every opportunity to participate in Red Cross training, but has also promoted Red Cross emergency preparedness programs and services in the Sullivan County townships of Bethel, Callicoon, Fallsburg, Forestburgh, Liberty and Thompson.

"So many people are surprised to hear all the Red Cross has to offer," he said. "They don't realize that we help people at disasters and offer so many First Aid and CPR classes. I love being able to educate them about everything we do."

He has proven himself as a strong leader in recruiting Red Cross volunteers to participate in chapter outreach activities, training classes and emergency preparedness activities. In addition, he has played a key role in disaster preparedness by recruiting local disaster volunteers to serve on-call during times when storms or floods threatened the area. Lee has also worked with local school officials to bring them information on Red Cross programs like "Facing Fear" and CPR/AED training, as well as on volunteer opportunities.

"Lee has enthusiastically embraced all available opportunities to provide Red Cross programs and services to the people of Sullivan County," said Elizabeth Popovich, director of the Orange/Sullivan County Chapter.

His leadership abilities rose to new heights last year when he personally recruited 78 Monticello Central School bus drivers and aides to take CPR for the Professional Rescuer with AED training, enhancing the safety of more than 2,500 students who ride the buses every day. "I believe these skills are important to know when dealing with kids on a daily basis," he said. "It took about six months to organize and I had a lot of support from the team of people I was working with. In the end, it was a really good feeling to see the outcome."

Lee's consistent hard work and dedication to the Red Cross were recognized throughout 2003, when he was honored with the Empire State High School Volunteer Award at the New York State Red Cross Conference and the American Red Cross in Greater New York Youth Services Award. His spirit, drive and commitment to helping people in need through his volunteer work with the Red Cross serve as strong motivators for others to follow his path.

"Lee richly deserves the recognition for leadership and commitment to the American Red Cross's mission. He is a shining example of the potential of American youth and the next generation of Red Cross leaders," added Elizabeth.

"The Red Cross has changed my life in so many ways. Even though I have cerebral palsy, I am no different then anyone else and my disability has never been an issue when it comes to the Red Cross," Lee said. "So many people rely on the Red Cross for various different reasons. They know someone will be there 24 hours a day, seven days a week if they need help. I am proud to serve my community and be a part of the American Red Cross in Greater New York. Get out there and make a difference!"