Potential new members and the Raymond Kershaw Youth Humanitarian Award were discussed by the Freehold Township Human Relations Council, who met Monday night, Jan 10. 

The purpose of the Human Relations Council is to promote goodwill, cooperation, and unity amongst Freehold Township residents. Lead by Chairman Rev. Jeff Philhower, the council strives to assist others in need and recognizes commendable acts by Freehold Township's residents.

The council talked about reaching out to Freehold Township's local business owners and community leaders, who could be potential council members and allies to aide their cause.

The council's Raymond Kershaw Youth Humanitarian Award was also the major topic of discussion.

The award, named after former Mayor Raymond Kershaw, recognizes outstanding behavior and awareness from a high school student. It has been given out since 2002. This year's award also includes $1,000 and is sponsored by Professional Orthopaedic Associates.

According to the Council, candidates for the award must:

• Be a legal Freehold Township resident

• Be either a high school junior or senior

• Have a minimum grade point average (G.P.A.) of 2.5

• Submit a brief personal statement that reflects the Council's main goals

• Have two letters of recommendation from either a teacher, principal, community representative, or clergy to support award criteria with activities that may include, but not restricted to, school, community, or religious projects.

Students that are interested in entering for the award can obtain an application at their school's guidance office or mail a written request for an application to:

Freehold Human Relations Council

Awards Committee

Freehold Township Municipal Bldg.

One Municipal Plaza

Freehold, NJ 07728

Students must send their applications along with the following: a personal statement, high school transcript, and letters of recommendation. The committee must receive all paperwork by March 15.

Nominations will be reviewed by the committee after March 15. Three semifinalists will be selected and the winner will be notified in June.

Freehold Township residents can help the Human Relations Council by attending its meetings, every first Month of each month at 7 p.m. For more information, visit http://www.twp.freehold.nj.us/ .