Planet Recognition
Zach’s Planet began with a simple question about where trash goes and grew into a youth-led environmental initiative recognized by national organizations, foundations, and civic leaders. These honors reflect the impact of turning discarded materials into resources that benefit communities and protect the planet.
National Highlights
 CONGRESSIONAL AWARD- SILVER MEDAL |  PRESIDENT'S VOLUNTEERS SERVICE AWARD - GOLD (6x) 200 hours annually! |
|---|---|
 NSHSS 18 UNDER 18 |  ACTION FOR NATURE INTERNATIONAL ECO HERO |
 DAILY POINTS OF LIGHT |  THE DOCTORS SHOW ENVIRONMENTAL CRUSADER OF THE YEAR |
Awards and Recognition Timeline
Zach’s environmental and community leadership has been recognized by national organizations, foundations, and civic institutions across the United States.
2026
VFW Post 10140 Scout of the Year
American Legion Boys State Delegate representing Post 5
2025
Scouts BSA Eagle Scout Rank
National Society of High School Scholars 18 Under 18 Scholarship
Karma for Cara Grant
Civics Unplugged / Macy’s Grant
Messenger of Peace Award - Scouts BSA
2024
Congressional Award- Silver Medal
President’s Volunteer Service Award – Gold (6x Recipient, 2018–2024)
National Society of High School Scholars Good Earth Sustainability Scholarship
Riley’s Way Continuation Grant
Civics Unplugged Fellowship
2023
Tampa Tarpons Hope Week Honoree
Hershey Heartwarming Grant
Riley’s Way Call for Kindness Fellowship Grant
Points of Light National Youth Ambassador Council Member
2022
Karma for Cara Grant
Daily Point of Light Honoree (#7202)
Points of Light Ins
2021
Karma for Cara Grant
2020
Drew Barrymore Show Guest (Environmental Youth Advocate)
Action for Nature International Eco Hero
EPA President’s Environmental Youth Award – Region 4 Winner (Top 5 National Finalist)
Hershey Heartwarming Grant
Glad Dog’s Nation Citizen of the Year
Speaking and Leadership
• NSHSS Scholars Day Speaker & Emcee – University of Florida
• NSHSS Scholars Day Panelist – Johns Hopkins University
• Jane Goodall Institute's Environmental Youth Summit Panelist
•NSHSS Podcast Panelist – Scholarship & Leadership Discussion
• Riley’s Way Fellowship Workshop Leader – Nashville Retreat
Led a hands-on service workshop creating upcycled pet toys for the Reducing Animal Stress Project.
• National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) – Scouts BSA, Camp Sandhill
• National Youth Leadership Conference – University of Miami
• Civics Unplugged Fellow – 8 Week Civic Leadership Fellowship
• Ronald Reagan Student Leadership Program
• Riley’s Way Call for Kindness Fellow – Year Long Fellowship
• National Society of High School Scholars Ambassador
•Points of Light Ambassador Council
Zach regularly speaks with students about environmental responsibility, service leadership, and how small ideas can grow into lasting community impact.”
Leadership Training & Fellowships
Grateful
“Each recognition represents something bigger: thousands of students reached, hundreds of volunteers inspired, and a growing movement to protect the only planet we have.”