Volunteering comes naturally for Alexis Bell. The Kenwood senior has been giving back to the community since she was in the 8th grade. The first opportunity came with the Baltimore Animal Rescue Center (BARC). She started out helping with the promotions and helped raise money for the organization. 
From then on, she says she has participated every year.
From then on, she says she has participated every year.
"Through my high school years I have participated every year by donating canned goods around the holiday's and been apart of my schools "adopt a family". It is an event held by our school where students select a number of children in need to buy Christmas presents for. I took in three kids last year and hope to take in more this year."
Lately, Bell has been helping out at HCR Manor Care, where her mom works, socializing with patients and letting them know they are cared for. That caring spirit is evident with her sister Allison, who is mentally handicapped and has verbal apraxia. Alexis says that means her sister is mentally seven years old, but in a fifteen year old body. It's a situation that has allowed her to be a better person. When her sister wanted to run cross country for the first time the only thought that crossed her mind was how hard it was on her and how hard it would be for her sister.
"I realized I only had myself, I didn't have a big sister. So we set out on the journey and even though it was an everyday struggle because of how her legs were built. I had to teacher how to run with out hurting herself. Some days were hard but just seeing that she had faith in herself made me believe in her more. Everyday i would tell her "I know its hard, trust me, I am right here running with you. Just keep breathing one step at a time".
When Alexis isn't volunteering, she is also a member of Student Goverment and servies as Senior Class President. As the winner of the New Balance Local Heroes contest, she will receive a party a local running store along with new running shoes for her entire Kenwood team. She says to be nominated for this award, be in the top five, and ultimately win is priceless.
"This award means so much to me. To me over the past four years I have been doing what to me is right things to do as a person and what could inspire others."