Boys & Girls Clubs Of Southwest Washington Announces 2025 Youth Of The Year (Photo) -03/04/25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 28, 2025
Media Contact:

Nicole Aliotti

Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington

(360) 448-7089

nicolea@mybgc.org

Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington Announces 2025 Youth of the Year

Esmeralda Advances to Washington State Competition for a Chance at a $10,000 Scholarship

Vancouver, WA -- Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington (BGCSW) is proud to announce Esmeralda as the 2025 Youth of the Year, the organization's highest honor recognizing outstanding leadership, service, and academic achievement.

Pictured left to right: Esmeralda's mother, Esmeralda, Yesenia Martinez-Beltran (BGCSW mentor and Outreach Coordinator), and Francisco Bueno (BGCSW Executive Director) with laptop donated by the Young Professionals Network Employee Resource group at Comcast.

 

Esmeralda will now advance to the Washington State Youth of the Year competition, where she has the opportunity to earn a $10,000 scholarship. If selected as the state winner, she will move on to the regional competition, with hopes of ultimately competing for the prestigious National Youth of the Year title and a $50,000 scholarship.

Driven by a passion for advocacy and representation, Esmeralda is determined to uplift and empower others. "The impact I aim to make is to help other women of color see themselves in positions we are not typically represented in. I aspire to challenge the stereotypes that are often imposed on us, demonstrating that they do not define or limit our potential," she shared.

BGCSW also recognizes the exceptional efforts of Avalon, Emily, Francisco, and Yorleni, who were nominated for their outstanding contributions to their Clubs and communities. Their commitment to service and leadership exemplifies the core values of Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington

Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington provides a safe and supportive environment where young people can reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. Through mentorship, leadership development, and educational programs, BGCSW empowers youth to create great futures.

Visit www.mybgc.org to learn more.

Boys & Girls Clubs Of Southwest Washington Announces 2025 Youth Of The Year Reception (Photo) -02/28/25

 

Vancouver, WA -- February 5, 2025 -- The Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington (BGCSW) is proud to announce its annual Youth of the Year Reception sponsored by Landerholm P.S., celebrating the outstanding achievements of our Club members. This year's event will take place on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm at Clark College, located at 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver, WA. 
 

The Youth of the Year program is Boys & Girls Clubs of America's premier recognition initiative, honoring young individuals who exemplify leadership, service, academic excellence, and a commitment to healthy lifestyles. Our local nominees have dedicated months to preparing for this moment, participating in skill-building workshops, crafting personal essays, and developing speeches that highlight their experiences at Club.
 

"This event is more than a celebration of individual accomplishments, it's a chance to spotlight the incredible potential of Club youth and the impact they have on our community," said Francisco Bueno, Executive Director of Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington. "Recognizing young leaders is vital because they are the future of our region. By supporting their growth and celebrating their achievements, we are investing in a stronger, more connected community for everyone."

Tickets for the reception are priced at $20 and include light bites and refreshments provided by local cafe and catering company Foode. To purchase tickets and support our youth, please visit our event page. SW Washington Youth of the Year
 

The selected southwest Washington Youth of the Year recipient will advance to represent BGCSW at the Washington State competition, joining other candidates from across the state for an opportunity to earn college scholarships and compete at regional and national levels.

For more information about the event or to learn how you can support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington, please visit our website at mybgc.org or contact Nicole Aliotti, Director of Communications & Development, nicolea@mybgc.org. 
 

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington:

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington exists to empower all youth, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible community members. Since our founding, we have been committed to providing a safe and positive environment where young people can learn, grow, and thrive.

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