Congratulations to Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa’s 2022 Youth of the Year, Sierra!
The Youth of the Year title is a prestigious honor bestowed upon an exemplary young person in recognition of leadership, service, academic excellence and dedication to live a healthy lifestyle. Now in its 75th year, the Youth of the Year program honors our nation’s most awe-inspiring young people on their path to great futures and encourages all kids to lead, succeed and inspire.
After joining Club in middle school, Sierra has grown into a compassionate, outgoing leader. Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa has been a place where Sierra can learn, grow and feel comfortable in her own skin with continued love and support from her peers, mentors and staff. Sierra hopes to continue to empower youth–especially through music–to feel safe and supported on their own personal growth journey.
“We are so proud of Sierra and all of the Central Iowa Youth of the Year candidates for all they have accomplished,” said Neisa Taylor, Director of Operations at Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa. “Sierra will be an incredible spokesperson for our organization. We wish her the best of luck as she progresses through each stage of the Youth of the Year program and continues to be a leader and role model for all Club members.”
Sierra will go on to compete for the Iowa Youth of the Year title and a $2,500 college scholarship from Boys & Girls Clubs of America! If Sierra is named the Iowa Youth of the Year, she will contend for the title of Midwest Regional Youth of the Year who will receive an additional $20,000 college scholarship. Six finalists will advance to the National Youth of the Year event in Los Angeles in September 2022, to vie for the title of Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s National Youth of the Year. The National Youth of the Year will receive an additional scholarship of $50,000 and a brand-new Toyota Corolla.
Another big congratulations to our Junior Youth of the Year, O’Shija!
Junior Youth of the Year seeks to develop junior leaders within the Club environment. The program cultivates their leadership potential, providing the foundation they need for advanced leadership development, academic excellence and postsecondary success.
We are so proud of you, Sierra & O’Shija! For more information about the Youth of the Year program, visit www.youthoftheyear.org.
Pictured: 2022 Junior Youth of the Year, O'Shija, and 2022 Youth of the Year, Sierra Pilate