Randi Anzek, 12, is a little shy, but that doesn't prevent her from helping others.
The Harlem Middle School sixth-grader learned American Sign Language to help people at Walton Options, where her stepmother, Cyndy Anzek, works.
"She's kind of naturally gifted at that," Mrs. Anzek said.
Randi can communicate with deaf people and serves as a sight guide for those with visual impairments.
"When she helps people, she has a lot of patience," said her father, Lee.
She also assists with paperwork and baby-sitting, Mrs. Anzek said.
Randi also helps around the house, and makes good choices, such as doing her homework without being asked, Mr. Anzek said.
"She's got a lot of self motivational direction," he said.
Randi is on the A/B honor roll and says her favorite subjects are social studies and math. She's particularly interested in weather.
She also is a good big sister to Katelynn, 3, and Sam, 9. She helps her little brother with his homework. They play a game to help him remember his spelling words.
When she's not helping others, she plays soccer for Mutiny, a North Augusta Department of Parks, Recreation & Leisure team, and also enjoys running and swimming.
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WANT TO SALUTE A YOUTH?
The Youth of the Month award recognizes good students who have talents in the arts, athletics or other areas. Nominees must be 8 to 18 and residents of the Aiken-Augusta area. Nomination forms are available at chronicle.augusta.com/communitycounts/nominate. For more information on the nomination process, call (706) 823-3223 or e-mail sarah.owen@augustachronicle.com.