BGCCI to Select 2022 Youth of the Year

On Friday, March 25, three young professionals in Greater Des Moines (DSM) will compete for Youth of the Year, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa’s (BGCCI’s) signature effort to foster a new generation of leaders fully prepared to live and lead in a diverse, global and integrated world economy. The Youth of the Year scholarship competition celebrates and recognizes Club members who exemplify the virtues of good character, service and leadership throughout the year. This prestigious competition asks teens to compose essays and a speech detailing their Club experience, personal brand and plan for their future.

2022 Candidates

Three candidates will participate in our local Youth of the Year, all from our new teen Club, E.T. Meredith Jr. at East High School. Candidates include DSM teens Cruz H., Delanee S and Sierra P. They will present their work for the chance to win scholarship dollars, and the winner of the Youth of the Year competition will move on to the state competition in late April, competing against other local Iowa winners.

Cruz H.

Cruz is involved in orchestra and Junior Staff, a program that helps 13-18 year old Club members explore careers in human services through career development activities, community service and apprenticeships. He joined BGCCI at the beginning of the pandemic.

Delanee S.

For more than five years, Delanee has been involved with BGCCI and all things music, including singing, dancing, acting and playing instruments.

Sierra P.

With six years at BGCCI, Sierra is also a fan of singing, dancing and acting. She also creates makeup looks, makes popcorn for Club members and volunteers regularly.

 

The 2022 event for BGCCI’s Youth of the Year will take place at the Holiday Inn Downtown from 6-8 p.m., and the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s own CEO, Jay Byers, will serve as one of the judges.

For tickets to this event, please visit: Sponsorship Options.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa's Great Futures Society connects young professionals from various industries and neighborhoods in the greater Des Moines metro to support and mentor Youth of the Year scholarship applicants and prepare them for the annual competition.

Job opportunities and career resources are abundant in Greater Des Moines (DSM). Whether you're looking to find an internship, a job, develop professionally or grow as a student, we have the resources to help you thrive.