April, 2005’s Citizen of the Month is an individual who has extended her hand of friendship to those less fortunate. We are very pleased to present this Citizen of the Month award to Ashley Heacock.

Ashley is one of those rare individuals who has not hesitated to step forward to volunteer with the Food Not Bombs program for this past year. Twice a week, Ashley and other volunteers provide a hot meal for the homeless near the Prairie Market; financial contributions come from donations throughout the community. This past winter she collected coats, mittens, hats and blankets that were distributed during the meal.

Ashley is involved in many other projects, collecting and sending toys to Iraqi children, nonperishable foods and sanitary items to the troops. She volunteers her time to help with projects involving the Pennington County Democrats such as picnics, fund-raisers and other events. Adults marvel at her enthusiasm and commitment to helping people, often pointing out that she is a natural leader and someone who truly makes a difference in people’s lives.

Ashley is a junior at Stevens High School where she maintains a 3.97 grade point average, takes advanced courses and was recently named as “Stevens Volunteer of the Year” by the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program. She was recently named Miss Rapid City Teen and won the Miss Congeniality award. Ashley is active in events at Stevens being the Junior Captain of the Stevens Blues dance team, playing with the Stevens orchestra, debate, Spanish Club and Democracy in Action. Ashley is also a member of the Black Hills Symphony Orchestra.

Ashley’s parents are Chris and Roger Heacock of Rapid City.