Underwriting support from:
/Casey Stratton, BGCGRYC
Selected among several local outstanding youth, Daniel Vargas will compete against other Boys & Girls Club members for the Michigan Youth of the Year title and a $1,000 college scholarship from Tupperware Brands Corporation. As the new Youth of the Year for Boys & Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids Youth Commonwealth, 18-year-old Vargas is a true example of an extraordinary young man recognized by Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) for his sound character, leadership skills and willingness to give back to the community.
Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can receive. As BGCA’s premier youth recognition program, Youth of the Year recognizes outstanding contribution to a member’s family, school, community and Boys & Girls Club, as well as overcoming personal challenges and obstacles. Youth of the Year encourages Club members to reach their full potential by achieving academic success, leading healthy lifestyles and contributing to their communities. Youth of the Year honorees are shining examples and living proof that great futures start at Boys & Girls Clubs.
“I can’t even begin to acknowledge enough how proud I am of Daniel for the positive influence he has made on many lives, and I truly look forward to seeing his impact on the community in the years to come,” says Executive Director, Rick Huisman, Boys & Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids Youth Commonwealth.
Daniel Vargas is an 18-year-old senior, who attends Union High School. Vargas’ hobbies include playing soccer and drawing. Vargas also volunteers at the Humane Society. He has been a Club member since 2008 and has been an active member in Keystone and Torch Club. Vargas plans to attend either the University of Michigan or GVSU to become a Mechanical Engineer.
If Vargas wins at the state competition, he will compete for the title of Midwest Region Youth of the Year and an additional $10,000 scholarship from Tupperware, the recognition program’s national sponsor. Five regional winners will advance to Washington, D.C, in September 2013 to compete for the title of BGCA’s National Youth of the Year. Than National Youth of the Year will receive an additional scholarship of up to $50,000 from The Rick and Susan Goings Foundation and will have the opportunity to meet the President of the United States.
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