Darnella Reeder, an eighth-grade student at Jackson Middle, was recognized by the National Association of Students Against Violence Everywhere (SAVE) for her volunteer work and efforts in preventing school violence.

Reeder received the “2007-08 National SAVE Student of the Year Award” for outstanding performance and lasting contributions to the school, community and students and for exemplifying the ideals of SAVE.

“Darnella takes pride in her position as president of the Jackson SAVE Club,” said Keith G. Pemberton, Jackson school social worker and one of the SAVE advisors. “She is passionate and genuine when learning and sharing the SAVE message with the student body.”

Reeder has led panel discussions on dating violence and peer pressure, and she coordinated a SAVE dance. Under her leadership, SAVE chapter membership has risen significantly. Service projects include “Kans for Kids Campaign” and “Pennies for Pasta” for the Lymphoma and Leukemia Society. Additionally, the chapter assisted in raising more than $3,000 for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

The National Association of SAVE is a student-run, student-initiated public nonprofit violence prevention organization with more than 1,700 chapters in 46 states and nearly 200,000 members in elementary, middle, high schools, colleges and communities nationwide. SAVE provides education about the effects and consequences of violence and makes safe activities available for students, parents and communities.