GOSHEN – Joshua Paul Klotz of Sparrow Bush has been named Orange County’s Citizen of the Month for December, honoring his extraordinary spirit of service, compassion, and dedication to his community
Klotz, a 2019 graduate of Port Jervis High School and a member of the 2025 graduating class of the Bridges Program at SUNY Orange, has devoted his life to lifting others up. Born with Down syndrome, Klotz has never allowed challenges to define or limit him. Instead, he has become a powerful example of perseverance, faith, and love in action, touching countless lives through his selfless service.
“Joshua represents the very best of Orange County; kindness, selflessness, and a commitment to serving others,” Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus said. “He has a heart for people and a joyful spirit that lights up every room he enters, and those who are in it. Joshua reminds each of us that you don’t need a title or a spotlight to make a difference, just compassion and the willingness to help. I am proud to honor him as December’s Citizen of the Month.”
Klotz’s volunteer work spans numerous organizations, churches, schools, and community efforts across the region, including:
- St. Mary’s Church (Port Jervis): Serving breakfast, assisting with the Christmas Food Basket Program, volunteering at the food pantry, and helping with St. Joseph’s Table
- Middletown Lions Club: Supporting the No Child Hungry backpack program at St. Paul’s Methodist Church
- SUNY Orange: Volunteering at the bookstore and Sarah Wells Café
- Special Olympics: Competing proudly on the Thunder Bolt Track & Field Team
- East Main Elementary School: Assisting in his sister Shannon’s art class
- Port Jervis High School: Volunteering for the All-Night Grad Party and serving as an honorary waterboy for the varsity football team
- United Presbyterian and Reformed Church (Port Jervis): Helping with community dinners
- The Boodle Box Project: Supporting West Point Cadets
- Personal Outreach: Delivering flowers and cards to community members who are ill, recovering, or grieving
Denise Hulse, who nominated him, said Klotz’s character and compassion made this recognition an easy choice.
“Josh is a genuinely caring, faith-driven, and compassionate young man who brings warmth and positivity to everyone he meets,” said Hulse. “He gives of himself every single day through acts of service, both big and small, and never expects anything in return. His life is a testament to love in action, and I can think of no one more deserving of this honor.”
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