Ashleigh Gutierrez became passionate about recycling in the 4th grade. Gutierrez explained, "My teacher scared me about global warming saying the whole earth is going to flood if we don't start taking better care of it."

Gutierrez volunteers for Eco-Cycle whose mission is recycling by partnering with individuals, schools, businesses, governments and event organizers to model a Zero Waste Community for the world. Gutierrez said, "I like volunteering for Eco-Cycle and I love to help the environment as much as I can."

Gutierrez still finds time to volunteer even though she's an eighth grade honor student and plays forward on her competitive roller hockey team.

Eco-Cycle's Caroline Mitchell said, "Ashleigh Gutierrez is one of Eco-Cycle's newer volunteers and is a passionate and articulate spokesperson for her young generation. Ashleigh is also the reigning Miss Pre-Teen Colorado and has found her increased visibility a wonderful avenue to promote her platform of Go Green. Ashleigh has demonstrated her passion and commitment, helping with several events including Broomfield Days and the Superior Hard-to-Recycle Round Up."

This year, Gutierrez did so much volunteering for Eco-Cycle; they named her Volunteer of the Year. At the awards ceremony, she received a plaque with a frame made from recycled cans created by a local artist. Gutierrez said, "I plan on volunteering for a very long time. When it stops being fun, I'll stop volunteering, but I don't see that happening any time soon."

For information about volunteering with Eco-Cycle or other agencies, call the Volunteer Connection at 303-444-4904.