Lynbrook's 2011 Youth of the Year: Frankie Gaetani

For the first time, the Village of Lynbrook awarded a Youth of the Year Award in addition to its annual naming of the Man and Woman of the Year.

The first recipient of the award is 14-year-old Frankie Gaetani, who has dedicated his young life to raising awareness and money for the National Kidney Foundation.

For Gaetani, it's a cause that hits close to home — his home, actually. His father has diabetes and end-stage renal disease.

The young resident first got involved with the National Kidney Foundation at the age of 11. By 14, he was one of the top Long Island fundraisers for the foundation.

Gaetani created a fundraising team, "Joe's Kidney Beans," which has helped to raise awareness across the Island. He has run fundraisers in schools, the Lynbrook VFW, and elsewhere in the community. In 2008, the New York Post awarded Gaetani the Young at Heart Liberty Medal. He has also been recognized by the National Kidney Foundation and has served as its keynote speaker at the organization's annual walk.

"Numerous times we have heard if a young child can do all this, we shouldn't be sitting around doing nothing," said one anonymous resident, who nominated Gaetani. "Frankie's actions make others want to get involved."