A Waldwick High School student who has donated hundreds of hours to working with local youths has been recognized for his efforts by the Ridgewood YMCA.

Brian Duke was awarded the Ridgewood YMCA 2010 Youth Volunteer Award at the 10th annual New Jersey YMCA State Alliance Dinner, which was held on Oct. 7.

The annual dinner celebrated and recognized public officials, Y supporters and youth who have made a difference in their New Jersey communities.

Brian Duke has been a volunteer at the Ridgewood YMCA for five years and during the 2010 summer alone, volunteered over 320 hours to working with local area children as a leader and teacher in sports, games, arts & crafts, swim lessons and on field trips.

Richard K. Gorab, Chairman of the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance, said, "Tonight we celebrate the unsung heroes of our local YMCAs – the youth volunteers who every day bring our core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility to life through their dedication and energy".

Rick Claydon, Chief Executive Officer of the Ridgewood Y added that the Ridgewood Y is "extremely proud of Brian and his accomplishments this year." "He is most deserving of the prestigious award," Claydon said.