On a normal 17th birthday celebration, a teenager might desire to be lavished with personal gifts. Tokay High School junior Brianna Watt is anything but normal.

Putting action to the phrase "It is better to give than receive," Brianna planned her own type of birthday celebration this year. Having been a volunteer at the Stockton Family Shelter since 2007, she has witnessed the true meaning of "needs" and "wants." She has seen the delight of those in need receive gently used clothing with joy and the appreciation of receiving well-worn shoes without complaint. Wanting to let these people in need know that they are loved, she decided to ask people to celebrate her birthday by donating a pair of new shoes to children at the shelter.