The Cattaraugus County Youth Bureau announces this week’s featured Youth Citizenship Award recipient is Thomas Kielar, a senior at Olean High School and the son of Stephen and Danielle Kielar.
Kielar’s nomination by his school counselor highlights his exceptional character as a student who not only excels academically but also exemplifies a strong commitment to community service. His dedication to volunteering and genuine civic engagement showcases his maturity and leadership potential.
Kielar’s passion for the outdoors and commitment to environmental science will serve him well as he pursues his college education. His goal of working with the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation aligns with his interests, allowing him to contribute to preserving natural resources and promoting sustainable practices.
Kielar’s impressive commitment of over 600 community service hours with the Scouts BSA, Troop 677, showcases a well-rounded involvement that spans design work, construction projects, fundraising efforts and community clean-ups. Thomas’ involvement in honoring veterans, from placing flags on graves to participating in ceremonial events, reflects his commitment to service, further exemplified by his role as Senior Patrol Leader in Boy Scouts, which he has held after 11 years of dedicated participation.
Kielar’s extensive volunteer work in Cattaraugus County demonstrates his profound commitment to community service, illustrated by his participation in initiatives like Toys for Tots, where he sorts, wraps and delivers gifts to underprivileged families. His dedication extends to baking for local food pantries, creating care packages for homebound residents and actively fundraising for causes such as the Genesis house. Moreover, his immersive approach with the Homeless Huskies, including sleeping outside to understand homelessness, alongside collecting food donations for the Souper Bowl of Caring, underscores his unwavering support for those in need within the community.
Kielar’s dedication to inclusivity shines through his volunteer work at the unified track and field day, where he teaches skills to children with disabilities. This initiative not only enhances the sports experience for these young athletes but also fosters a sense of community and empowerment, promoting camaraderie and support among all participants.
In school, Kielar is a member of several activities, including orchestra for two years, violin; Interact Club for one year; Ski Club for four years; and varsity soccer for one year, team manager.
Kielar exemplifies the values of the National Honor Society through his commitment to scholarship, character, leadership and service, all while achieving high honor roll status. His dedication to both academics and athletics is highlighted by receiving the scholar-athlete award for his achievements in soccer, showcasing his ability to excel in multiple disciplines and contribute positively to his school community.
Kielar values quality time with his loved ones and embraces nature through various outdoor activities such as fishing, camping and skiing.
Kielar’s commitment to his community and school is evident in his unwavering enthusiasm for various activities and initiatives, as well as his focused dedication to making a positive impact. Congratulations, Thomas!
Nominations for the 2025 graduating class are closed. For more information, visit cattcoyouth.org or contact Christina O’Brien, Youth Bureau program coordinator, at (716) 701-3360.
