Each week, Waukesha Patch wants to honor an area student for something special they have done. Please send nominations to Sarah.Millard@Patch.com.

This week, we focus on someone just outside our boarders but whose volunteer work in Waukesha has earned him a little extra recognition. Meet Chris Hsieh, a 17-year-old student at Brookfield Central High School. Chris was nominated by Marcy Stutzman, the volunteer coordinator at the Waukesha Salvation Army.

Whiz Kid's Accomplishment: Christopher Hsieh was honored at the United Way Volunteer Center's "Inspire by Example" Awards on Tuesday as  the Youth Volunteer of the Year

Whiz Kid's Key to Awesomeness: Since April of 2008, Chris has been volunteering for the Salvation Army's Community Meal Program. The Salvation Army Community meal serves an average of 1,350 free meals each month.  Chris volunteers three to four Saturdays each month for a shift of about two hours.  During the past three years, he has put in more than 250 hours of volunteer time.

He helps run the dining room by wrapping silverware, plating desserts, pouring water and serving food. He has been very patient when instructing new volunteers. Chris is a shining example to other high school kids.

Chris is an active member of Brookfield Central's Key Club,  NHS and is going to state for his work in high school band.  

"He is so mature, so giving; he realizes how much he has been blessed in life and wants to give back," said Penny Ernsting, Salvation Army meal program registration worker, in a release.

Last summer, Chris had surgery on his leg and was unable to volunteer for the community meal orogram. During his recovery time, he helped with data entry and started tutoring and giving computer and music lessons to youth attending Salvation Army programs.

Volunteering has become a way of life for Chris.  Chris truly “Inspires by Example.”  One Christmas, his parents gave him money to buy an iPod Touch.  Most high school students would have purchased the iPod or something else for themselves; however Chris felt compelled to donate his money to different charities, including The Salvation Army.

Chris’ philanthropic nature is commendable for someone his age; even adults can be inspired by the example he has set.