4 year old honored for character
By Yvonne Lim Wilson | September 13, 2008
Learning to share is probably one of the most difficult lessons for children, but Joel Griffin, 4, never gave it a second thought after seeing photos of earthquake and tsunami victims in Asia.
Earlier this summer, Joel and his mother Susan attended “You are Not Alone,” a fundraiser for the earthquake and tsunami victims in Asia. He was so moved by the photos, he decided he wanted to do something.
“I didn’t realize the images affected him so much,” Susan said. “He asked, ‘Mom, why did this happen? We have to get out the water. We have to help.’”
He said he wanted to give his toys to the little boy in one of the photos “so that he wouldn’t be sad anymore,” Susan said.
With his mother’s help, Joel held a garage sale and sold all of his toys and raised $31 to donate to relief efforts.
Amy Wong Mok, Asian American Cultural Center CEO and director, was moved to create “Exceptional Character Award” when she heard Joel’s story.
“The Chinese believe that character is formed before the age of five,” Mok said. “That $31 is worth more than gold.”
In addition with honoring Joel with the award, the Center gave Joel an additional $500 for him to donate to a non-profit of his choice.
Rep. Elliott Naishtat, Rep. Mark Strama and Council member Lee Leffingwell presented the award to Joel during the Harvest Moon Festival celebration, Sept. 13, 2008.
“The Harvest Moon Festival is an occasion for celebrating family and humanity,” Naishtat commented. “Joel’s generous spirit demonstrates the capacity of people, especially young people, to extend care and assistance to children beyond national borders.”
The Center also operates the Magic Dragon Preschool, although Joel is not a student at the school. The Exceptional Character Award will become an annual event; nominations of children are encouraged. For details, contact the Asian American Cultural Center, 512-336-5069, www.asianamericancc.com.
