In the book of Timothy, chapter 12 verse 4, St. Timothy writes this message to young believers: "Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for them in speech, life, love, faith, and purity".

At Sacred Heart we are fortunate to be blessed with many young people who have heard the words of St. Timothy and make them a part of their daily lives.

One such person is Laura Carps, a senior at Wadsworth High school. Laura is the daughter of Jim and Kay Carps, she has a sister Shannon who is a freshman and a brother Mike who is in fifth grade. Laura has been involved in Sacred Heart’s high school youth group for four years, she has taken an active role in many of our various service projects and events. The list includes "Rent-a-kid" and "Super Bowl Chili" fundraisers, as well as Operation Christmas Child, Fall yard clean up day, and other services to our community.

Last year, Laura suggested that our youth group participate in the "Relay for Life". Laura planned and coordinated our group’s participation in the "Relay for life" herself. Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society's activity to raise money and awareness for cancer. Teams of 8 to 15 people camp out at a local high school, park or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Each team has representative on the track at all times during the 24-hour event, extending overnight and into the next day. (for more on Relay for Life go to http://www.cancer.org )

The death of Laura’s great aunt and her fourth grade teacher personally touched her own life, and sparked in interest. Laura learned of the Relay for Life through Key Club, of which she is vice president. The Sacred Heart Relay for Life team that she put together consisted of Mary Gruber, Eric Knight and family, Rana Matheny, Shannon Gedeon, Matt Leahy, Shannon Carps, and Elizabeth Cotey.

In her own words "The most rewarding part was seeing how much people actually cared. It really was awesome to walk around the track late at night with the luminaries all lit up. That was the most special part for me".

In addition to her commitment to actively serve others in her community, Laura manages to fit varsity tennis, National Honor Society, Volunteer Opportunities for Teens, HUDDLE and tutoring other students into her schedule.

After graduation she plans to pursue a career in Pharmacy and has applied to Ohio Northern University, Duquesne University, and The University Of Toledo. The spirit of St. Timothy will shine wherever she goes.

— JOSH WATSON