Awards aren’t weak. Awards mean little. It’s what is behind them that matters. You have solid, I’m assuming quantifiable ECs, so you are fine.
In other words, you could be Volunteer of the Year. It says nothing. What you did to earn it is what matters. So I’m general, awards aren’t a big deal. Most that kids list are not impactful - like Dean’s list or Ap Scholar wit blah blah.
Work is a great EC.
You’re in 11th grade - yes it’s too early to start essays as you don’t know what they’ll be. It’s even too early for a finalized school list.
You’ll be able to go low cost in-state, really low cost OOS or to numerous privates. When you say they’re willing to pay do they know that might be $340k over four years ??
What you should figure out is the setting you desire. Large or small. City or urban or rural. Weather. Distance from home. Things like that.
Have your folks take you to a variety of local campuses but different types to get a sense of what you desire.