2021 Youth of the Year
Cindy S.
Throughout middle school, Cindy experienced depression and other mental health challenges. She didn’t want anyone to know she was struggling, but Club staff were there for her and provided a safe place for her to be vulnerable.
“I thought I was doing amazing at hiding it, but one staff member saw me drowning within darkness and gave me some light.”
Attending the Club, spending time with staff members, and making new friends helped Cindy develop healthy habits and find positivity in her life.
“It gave me hope that one day I will be okay and I am not alone and never was. Over time with this daily routine, I began to find better ways to cope when I am down.”
Cindy found herself feeling depressed again in 2020 when she was isolated during her senior year of high school. Despite the unprecedented challenges she faced, Cindy was able to use
the skills she learned from the Club. Cindy has grown into a confident person with friends and mentors she knows she can rely on.
the skills she learned from the Club. Cindy has grown into a confident person with friends and mentors she knows she can rely on.
“The Club shaped me to be who I am today. They taught me that I have value, I have purpose.”
Thank you to our sponsor at Hanford Mission Integration Solutions for supporting Boys & Girls Clubs of Benton and Franklin Counties' Youth of the Year event!
If you or someone is interested in attending to learn about the power of the Club through youth voice, email our Director of Donor Relations & Grant Management Brianna Harty.
