Congratulations to Ethan & Alizabeth for being selected as the 2021 Washington State Youth of the Year Winners!
We are happy to share with you our 2021 Military Youth of the Year Ethan from Joint Base Lewis-McChord and 2021 Youth of the Year Alizabeth from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Thurston County. These two remarkable leaders were chosen for their outstanding club story and commitment to their communities. Together they represent the very best of what the Boys & Girls Clubs of Washington have to offer.
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Thank you to all the wonderful Youth of the Year Finalists from across Washington State. These teens are and will continue to be leaders in their local Clubs. We look forward to seeing them continue their journeys as outspoken and character-rich individuals.
The nine Youth of the Year Finalists from across Washington have been leaders long before the Covid-19 pandemic so when challenged befell them and their communities, they were quick to provide help. Like many Boys & Girls Club members, these remarkable young people understand the power of service. Some volunteered in their local Clubs helping with homework, others spent time at local food banks, still more were a strength to their peers and families.
This year’s Youth of the Year Events were unlike any other with a full transition to virtual platforms and finalists participating from their local Clubs. Despite the distance, they were able to forge new friendships and be celebrated in all corners of Washington.
The Finalists first met over Video Conference to build relationships, practice interview and speech skills, and to calm some nerves. Staff members from Columbia Bank, title sponsor for this year’s Youth of the Year Celebration, meet with finalists for a professional interview coaching session. Finalists met with Washington’s leaders including a virtual conference with Governor Jay Inslee and a town hall discussion with Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck, Attorney General Bob Ferguson, and Commissioner of Public Lands Hillary Franz.
Following the competition, the Boys & Girls Clubs across Washington came together for a Virtual Youth of the Year Celebration. Hosted by last year’s Youth of the Year winners, special guests such as Seattle Seahawks cornerback Marcus Trufant, Washington State Senator Reuven Carlyle, and Retired NBA Player Jamal Crawford were all featured to recognize this year’s finalists.
Every year, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Washington State recognizes alumni who have served their communities after their time at the Clubs. Inductees this year included Washington State Senator Reuven Carlyle, and Retired NBA Player Jamal Crawford. You can learn more about our Alumni Hall of Fame Inductees HERE.