Maria Shriver's Lovin' Compassion Award

For young visionaries - not Arnold.

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A good ice-cream cone can be more than a rich and creamy treat. Take Lovin’ Scoopful ice cream ($3.99–$4.99/pint; lovinscoopful.com), founded by Maria Shriver and her brother, Tim. Lovin’ Scoopful serves up a high-quality, fun and health-conscious product that funnels revenues toward worthy causes. Currently, the company donates 25 percent ($50,000 minimum annually) of its post-tax profits to Special Olympics and other causes. The creamy, all-natural ice cream comes in 13 flavors, plus they claim to have half the fat and one-third fewer calories than other premium ice creams.

The company has used its pull to inspire kids to make a difference in the world with the Lovin’ Compassion Award, which recognizes young visionaries who are involved in programs that foster respect, inclusion and a true personal connection for people with differences. This year, regional awards went to seven young people from across the country. Ranging in ages 8 to 17, all are involved with Special Olympics programs, Best Buddies or other organizations designed to create more accepting communities.

Among them is Caitlynn Cantrell from McMinnville, Ore., who was awarded the sole National Award. Cantrell, 14, received numerous nominations for her dedication to promoting acceptance and respect for all students. By participating in a Special Olympics event, Cantrell began to understand the importance of advocating against injustice, neglect, bullying and exclusion, prompting her to organize a campaign to end the use of the “R” word at her middle school. She continues to inspire her peers, family and teachers with her lifelong commitment to fighting for equality, inclusion and unconditional acceptance for children, youth and adults with and without intellectual disabilities.

The regional winners include Kaitlyn Guild, 14, from Berlin, Conn.; Lara Hawley, 17, from Woodbury, Conn.; Peter Bowman, 11, from Syracuse, N.Y.; Kyleigh Clark, 14, and Sara Olvera, 14, from Abilene, Texas; and Emma Rose Earl, 14, from Chester, Mont.—Denise Shoukas