'Whiz Kid' Gains New Perspective Through Volunteering

Every Wednesday, St. Louis Park Patch will recognize an outstanding local youngster as a "Whiz Kid." If you would like to nominate someone, please click .

Whiz Kid: Dan Lundberg

Age: 16

School: (junior)

Accomplishment: Dan has volunteered at both the Courage Center and the Gillette Children's Hospital in the Twin Cities.

Key to Awesome-ness: Earlier this school year, Dan decided to do some volunteering that would expand his perspective on life. He got involved with the Courage Center, helping teach children with disabilities how to play soccer, a sport Dan loves.

At about the same time, Dan began a research project through the Gillette Children's Hospital focused on Duchenne muscular dystrophy. He quickly realized that many of the kids he interacts with at the Courage Center are battling the same condition. By both studying Duchenne and working with children dealing with it, Dan said he gained a very deep understanding of the condition and the challenges it presents.

"I'm really lucky to have had this opportunity," he said, adding that he would like to pursue an education and career that would allow him to continue working with children with disabilities. While his research is largely wrapped up, Dan continues to volunteer at the Courage Center weekly.