A member of the South Portland Club for 11 years, Josh is a well-rounded and active young man.  Although heavily committed outside the Club these days, he answers the call whenever asked to represent the Club at a function.  He is an excellent student, member of the varsity football and lacrosse teams, and accomplished trumpet player.  He is also an EMT-B and volunteers on his town’s Student Rescue Team.  Josh plans on becoming a doctor.  Josh is a senior at Scarborough High School and plans to attend the University of Southern Maine in the fall. 

“The best thing one can do for themselves is to do the best they can in whatever they do; to never sell themselves short.  The Club has taught me that along with a plethora of other life skills and lessons.”

Joining seven years ago as a charter member, Aimee continues to be active at the Auburn/Lewiston Club, particularly in arts and crafts, field trips and special events.  She is one of the original members of the Torch Club and now greets members at the front desk.  She is a solid student and helps younger members in the Learning Center.  Aimee has been highly involved in community service activities, including working in a local nursing home and assisting at fundraising events. Aimee is a senior at Edward Little High School and plans to attend the University of Maine at Augusta in the fall.

"The Club cheers me up everyday.  I still look forward to going there.  I always feel welcome and wanted.  The Club builds up a lot of my social skills and gives me a good chance to succeed.”

Vera has been a member of the Portland Boys & Girls Club for four years.  In recognition of her contribution as a leader and role model to the younger members, she was selected Member of the Year in 2002.  At the Club, Vera keeps busy primarily with swimming, art activities, and Keystone Club.  She is a talented artist, having had three pieces achieve the national level in the Fine Arts Exhibit.  Her strong faith guides her in making everyday decisions and setting personal goals.  She plans to study photography in college.  Vera is a senior at Portland High School and hopes to attend Brooks Institute of Photography in the fall. 

“The Club has a special place in my heart.  Whenever
I was having a hard time, or just needed to talk, I knew I could turn to the staff at the Club… I won’t forget that it was because of the Boys & Girls Club that I have made it this far.”

The Youth of the Year program is the Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s (www.bgca.org) premier youth recognition program, promoting and celebrating Club members’ service to Club, community and family; academic performance; spiritual values; life goals and; and poise and public speaking ability.  Local Clubs select a "Youth of the Year", who then participate in state competition.  State winners participate in regional competition.  Five regional winners each receive $5,000 scholarship and compete on the national level.  The National Youth of the Year receives an additional $10,000 in scholarship and is installed by the President of the United States.  The Youth of the Year program, in existence for more than 50 years, is sponsored by the Readers Digest Association.