The Greater Westfield Boys and Girls Club "Youth of the Year Award"
The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Westfield
Mission Statement:
To inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Westfield provides:
- A safe place to learn and grow
- Ongoing relationships with caring, adult professionals
- Life-enhancing programs and character development experiences
- Hope and opportunity
History of the Youth of the Year Program
Since the early 1970’s, the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield has run a national youth recognition initiative that promotes good moral character, leadership and service qualities in today’s youth. The Youth of the Year program is a national youth recognition program that celebrates the Boys & Girls Club experience.
It is a year-round program for youth ages 14 to 18 that promotes and celebrates members’ s service to Club; community and family; academic performance; moral character; life goals; poise and public speaking abilities. It is the cornerstone of the organization’s Character & Leadership Development core program area, helping young people focus on personal development attributes needed to successfully transcend into adulthood.
Candidates are chosen from a pool of youth who received recognition throughout the year. Youth of the Year nominees are paired with a Club mentor who guides them through the entire application process. The candidates have to write essays, collect support letters and be interviewed by a panel of local community leaders. Each candidate then prepares a short speech to deliver at the annual Youth of the Year dinner in front of upwards of 200 guests.
The Winner will go on to compete at the State level. If the youth wins, they have the opportunity to expand their personal growth by competing in regional and national level. It is an experience of a lifetime for individuals who are awarded because they are able to proudly represent their own Club aside other clubs around the country.
The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield is governed by a board of directors, which is led by Board President, Michael Coffey. Day to day operations management is led by Chief Professional Officer, William Parks.