Strength of character. Resilience. Determination.
These are just some of the words used to describe this year’s candidates for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Dundee Township’s annual Youth of the Year award.
John O’Sullivan, a member of the board of directors and one of this year’s judges, said choosing the winner from the seven contenders was tough. For the competition, the teens have to submit letters of recommendation, write essays and present a speech.
“I won’t tell you I wasn’t moved to tears,” O’Sullivan said. “The common thread was the difference the club has made in their lives. They said the club provided them a safe haven, provided purpose, emotional support, leadership skills, and for many, a second home and family they could count on.”
Applicants are also chosen based on academic accomplishments, leadership skills, perseverance, moral character, and service to their Boys & Girls Club and community.
During the ceremony held Thursday night at the Holiday Inn in Elgin, Dundee-Crown High School sophomore Nichiya Pippins was honored as the 2016 Youth of the Year.
Her fellow finalists included Dundee-Crown High School students Avionce Collins, Briana Pease, DeLois McGee, Kajira Blunt, Kalyn McGee, and Antonio Guevara Jr.
Pippins, who now has an opportunity to compete at the regional, state and national level of the Youth of the Year program, also received a $10,000 scholarship from Sage Products.
After learning of her win, Nichiya’s fellow finalists engulfed her in a group hug. She then tearfully made her way to the microphone.
“I want to say thanks to my mom because I know you’ve been pushing me hard to finish this project,” she said. “And I know my dad would be proud of me.”
The ceremony also included a performance by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Dundee Township’s Blue Voices choir and featured speaker Maria Torres, the Clubs’ 2006 Youth of the Year.
All the finalists were also presented with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet.
Erin Sauder is a freelance reporter.
