Teen named park district's Volunteer of the Year

Simi Valley resident Joel Mueller, 13, was selected from a pool of more than 600 volunteers to receive the 2007 Volunteer of the Year Award from Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District.

Joel received the award in recognition of his attitude of service and how he motivates other volunteers.

Joel has been a volunteer for the district since February 2007 and he comes every week to help in the district office with a variety of tasks.

He also volunteered at the Halloween Carnival and is willing to help at any other district volunteer assignment if needed.

Joel has a serious visual disability but neither his age nor physical challenges have stopped him from doing the best job he can.

After receiving his award plaque, Joel shared his ideas for improvements at the local ballfield to help players with disabilities. He plays in a challenger league and had suggestions for making maneuvering around the field during the game easier for those in wheelchairs and others who have visual disabilities.

Board Chair James Meredith asked staff members to investigate possible adaptations for the field at Santa Susana Park where Joel and his team play.

Joel is a homeschooled student.