Submitted by Boys & Girls Clubs of Thurston County
Capital High School junior, Johanna Chhay, representing the Olympia Boys & Girls Club, was named the 2019 Boys & Girls Clubs of Thurston County Youth of the Year at the organization’s annual celebration held February 1. She earned the Youth of the Year honor by competing against Club winners from each of the five Thurston County Club locations.
Johanna now advances to the Washington state Youth of the Year competition and possible regional and national competitions, with scholarships awarded at various levels of advancement. Each competing Club member in the Youth of the Year program has to meet academic and community service requirements, write essays, submit letters of endorsement, and prepare and present a speech about their experiences.
Chhay, a 17-year-old junior at Capital High School in Olympia, gave an emotional and inspiring speech acknowledging the impact of her Club experience on her life. Her interests include theatre, singing, dancing, film, photography, and helping others. Johanna notes her gratitude for the positive guidance she has received from teachers, Club staff, and friends. Of an influential Club Director, Chhay noted, “She taught me right from wrong and how important connections with people will have throughout your life.” As the 2019 Youth of the Year winner, Chhay received a two-year tuition grant from South Puget Sound Community College (SPSCC).
“We are grateful and overwhelmed by the resilience, enthusiasm, and leadership shown by all of our Youth of the Year nominees,” says Shellica Trevino, Acting Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Thurston County. “I am especially proud to have witnessed Johanna’s growth as a leader among her peers and to see the positive impact our Clubs have had on her life and the lives of all of our finalists. It is a privilege to play a part in their journey.”
Several community partners and supporters make the Youth of the Year program and celebration possible including education partner, SPSCC; program sponsor, Gateway Rotary; Lead Sponsor, Olympia Federal Savings; and Development sponsor, Team Agtarap. An upcoming opportunity to engage with and support Boys & Girls Clubs of Thurston County is the annual Foundation for the Future breakfast held May 16, 2019, at St. Martin University Marcus Pavilion.
