Reno girl who helps disaster victims honored

A Reno girl who collects toys and books for young disaster victims across the country has won a national award.

Ashlee Smith, 10, will receive a Founder's Youth Award from the nonprofit group World of Children in New York on Thursday, the day after appearing on CBS's "The Early Show." The award includes a $15,000 grant, which Ashlee is hoping to use to attract matching funds and expand her nonprofit organization Ashlee's Toy Closet.

"All my family is blown away," she told The Associated Press. "Getting this grant is amazing. We're asking people to match it so we can get more toys and books."

The only other recipient of a 2009 Founder's Youth Award is Jessica Markowitz, 14, of Seattle, whose charity currently sends 22 Rwandan girls to school.

Pleasanton, Calif.-based World of Children is dedicated to improving children's lives by recognizing individuals who work on behalf of children in need, according to its Web site. The group also honors adults.

Ashlee launched her organization in 2007 after a wildfire destroyed more than 250 homes on Lake Tahoe's south shore. Her father, Matt Smith, a firefighter in Storey County near Reno, helped battle the blaze.

Ashlee said she knew how young victims of the fire felt because her family lost its home to a fire in 2005 when she was 6.

Her organization distributes toys and books to children affected by fires, floods and other natural disasters. It also has helped children and families facing economic hardship.

"I like turning kids' frowns upside down," she said, estimating 10,000 children have received toys and books to date.

Ashlee has teamed with fire and police departments as well as companies to supply the items to young victims.

The Founder's Youth Award recognizes those under the age of 21 who have made extraordinary contributions to the lives of other children.

In all, World of Children has awarded cash grants to 78 people in 50 countries to date.

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On the Net:

Ashlee's Toy Closet: http://www.ashleestoycloset.org

World of Children: http://www.worldofchildren.org