Sisters get commendations from White House
Published: November 1, 2006
When the Underhill family returned from vacation, they had more than a pile of bills and junk mail waiting for them.
Sisters Arissa and Deianeira each received large manila envelopes directly from the White House.
“I was really surprised when I saw it,” said Arissa, 10.
“It was exciting,” added Deianeira, 8.
The envelopes contained letters to the Rochester Memorial School students from President George W. Bush and first lady Laura Bush, commending them for their humanitarian efforts. The envelope also contained a photo of the President and first lady.
“The president added that he hoped we would keep doing our best efforts in helping those less fortunate, especially with literacy,” Arissa said.
Arissa and Deianeira have been actively involved in fundraising for Reach Out and Read, a national nonprofit organization that promotes early literacy.
Their efforts recently resulted in 400 new books being donated to the program.
In addition, the two girls have purchased and donated food to local food pantries, donated hair to the Locks of Love Program and contributed to a wildlife conservation fund in memory of Steve Irwin.
“Now we are trying to help the kids at Camp Sunshine,” said Deianeira, 8, referring to a camp based in Maine for children battling cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.
The recognition came as a surprise to the girls and their parents, Dawn and Matthew Underhill.
“We had no idea that they were going to be receiving this honor,” said Ms. Underhill. “The work the girls are doing is important to help them be well rounded and appreciative of all that they have.”
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