WHEREAS it is the intention of the Mayor and Council of Cherry Hill Township to focus attention on noteworthy individuals; and

WHEREAS tonight, we wish to recognize Olivia McMullen, a 15-year-old sophomore at Cherry Hill High School West, for being inducted as Miss Worldwide Teen New Jersey Ambassador for the Live Out Loud Charity; and

WHEREAS Live Out Loud is a nonprofit organization with a focus on preventing suicide and bullying and developing character. The organization was originally founded in 2010 by Sherrie Gearheart, an Illinois woman who had lost a childhood friend to suicide. The organization’s mission is to raise awareness about mental health issues and educate people on the signs of depression and suicide prevention; and

WHEREAS with a personal connection to the mission of this organization, Olivia submitted an essay, interviewed with the founder, and was reviewed by the charity’s board to become Live Out Loud’s first ambassador in the state of  New Jersey; and

WHEREAS this month, Olivia was inducted as Miss Worldwide Teen New Jersey Ambassador for the Live Out Loud Charity where she has completed multiple training programs focused on the their three core areas which include suicide prevention, anti-bullying, and character development; and

WHEREAS Olivia will continue to spread the word about Live Out Loud’s programs by speaking with community groups and schools while also planning fundraising events that will provide a platform for those struggling with depression and other mental health issues to share their story.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, CHUCK CAHN, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor of the Township of Cherry Hill, County of Camden, State of New Jersey, do hereby proclaim Thursday, August 23, to be

Olivia McMullen Day 

Olivia serves as an example to our community through her personal achievement, leadership and continued perseverance. We encourage all citizens to celebrate Olivia and wish her continued success.