It is with great pleasure that I announce Ethan Hunter as Issaquah Highlands’ 2022 Volunteer of the Year! As a current Issaquah High School senior, he has served on the Highlands Youth Advisory Board (HY) since sixth grade.
You may have seen Ethan working hard behind the scenes during many past youth programs and Highlands Day celebrations. Always the first to jump in when help is needed, Ethan took on a valuable leadership role at our Global Grub & Groove events this summer, working on logistics and helping to organize other youth volunteers.
Ethan has been pivotal in bringing live programming for teens back to Issaquah Highlands this year, after a pause during the pandemic. His drive, background and desire to connect our community’s youth have been invaluable in leading the HY Board back to in-person events like Parents Night Out in December and the Middle School Halloween Party in October, which was attended by 180 students.
“I like to lead a group through challenges,” Ethan shared in his application to join the HY Board in 2016.
Looking back on his tenure with the HY Board, he has lived up to that statement time and time again. As I’ve come to know Ethan over the past several years, it’s clear there is no challenge he won’t undertake. He has truly become an inspiring leader.
At age 7, Ethan moved from Minnesota to Issaquah Highlands with his mom, dad and brother. His family chose this community for the excellent schools, active and vibrant community, nearby shopping and quick commute to Seattle.
After doing a few volunteer projects in elementary school, Ethan jumped at the opportunity to apply to the HY Board as an incoming middle schooler.
Upon his acceptance to the HY Board, he said: “Being able to work with a group of people from your local community to make that community a better place is always rewarding.”
As published in Winter 2023 Connections.
What They’re Saying About Ethan
“In my time in the HY (Highlands Youth Advisory Board) with Ethan, I saw him consistently volunteer himself in any way that he could. His desire to be helpful was so strong that at times I wondered why I was in the co-president position and not him. In my time working with Ethan, I can say that he embodies what it means to be a servant leader– humbly and consistently building and supporting his community through leadership by example.”
JONAH FOSS
Former Co-President HY Board, 2019-20, and Manchester Court resident
“Ethan’s one of the nicest people I know. He always shows up to volunteer with a smile on his face and passes it on to the rest of us. Ethan’s been working and volunteering for a long time now, so whenever one of us has a question, we immediately turn to him. His leadership is amazing, and I love working with him! Congratulations Ethan!”
RYAN ABY
Current Co-President HY Board, 2022-23, and Grand Ridge Drive resident
“I met Ethan when he applied to the HY as a rising 6th grader. He was a small kid with big leadership gifts and was unanimously selected to the youth board. There are so many things I respect about Ethan. He has a huge heart for this community and deeply understands the desire of teens to have a sense of belonging and feeling included. Ethan is happy to serve, no matter the task, from behind the scenes to being out front, if it’s helpful, he is ALL IN. I am excited for Ethan’s future and the big differences he will make wherever he goes next. Congratulations Ethan!! Well deserved.”
CHRISTY GARRARD
Former Highlands Council Executive Director, and Dahlia Park resident
“Ethan, you have grown so much since joining the HY in 6th grade. You’ve embraced the community and grown both in your volunteerism and leadership skills. You are patient, kind, and you truly enjoy helping those around you. It has been a joy watching you flourish in this space. We are incredibly proud of the person you have become.”
MOM, DAD, AND LOGAN
Kirk Park residents
“Rarely do you ever meet someone as knowledgeable, dedicated, kind, and humble as Ethan. Being able to work with him has been such an amazing experience, and seeing his willingness to lend a hand to those around him and help them feel included is part of what inspires me to continue doing my best to serve the community as well. It is my hope that everyone gets the chance to meet an amazing person like Ethan at least once in their life!”
COLIN YUEN
Current Co-President HY Board, and Central Park resident
Inspired to get involved in our community?
Getting more involved in our community is a fun and easy way to meet people and contribute to the participatory culture of Issaquah Highlands. From community boards and committees to community groups and events, volunteer opportunities are always available.
