Kyla Johnston of Columbia Falls was recognized as one of two recipients of Congressman Greg Gianforte’s Spirit of Montana commendations this week.

Gianforte highlighted Johnston in the U.S. House of Representatives for her children’s reading program, along with Billings sixth-grader Karlee Albertson and her “Nails for a Cause” program.

“I rise today to honor Kyla Johnston of Columbia Falls and Karlee Albertson of Billings for their entrepreneurial spirit that has contributed to their communities. Kyla conducts a children’s reading program, donates books, and encourages kids to read. Karlee paints nails for charity and has raised more than $20,000 for Christmas gift-giving programs,” Gianforte told the House of Representatives.

A recent graduate of Columbia Falls High School, Johnston Johnston was also a recipient of the Prudential Spirit of Community Award this year for her efforts reading to children at the monthly community dinners at the Canyon School in Hungry Horse.

Each month, Johnston not only reads to children after they have finished eating, she also provides books so the kids can add to or establish their own home libraries, and has raised money for more books to help kids keep up with their reading in the summer.

Johnston also shovels snow for seniors and plants flowers at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.

Gianforte’s Spirit of Montana is a weekly recognition of Montanans for their accomplishments, dedication, or service.