Tara Suri - National Winner (Grant amount -$15,000)

Shocked by the poverty and sexism I encountered in India, when I was thirteen, I founded HOPE (Helping Orphans Pursue Education) to provide all children with the opportunity to reach their potential. HOPE has improved access to basic necessities, especially education, in orphanages in India and Sudan, where most of the children were abandoned as infants. In India, HOPE financed the construction of a dormitory, drastically improving the children's lives; previously, the children had a flimsy shelter that would often be destroyed by storms. After volunteering in India, I also wrote a novel about sex trafficking that I hope to publish. Now, HOPE has morphed into a larger movement: Turn Your World Around. I see youth as a movement capable of effecting massive change; I strive to empower that movement. I started Turn Your World Around (http://www.turnyourworldaround.org) to innovatively implement social-change initiatives and help youth turn their passions into action. Youth become involved in our Turn-Your-World program, which helps them develop a service project, or they participate in our other initiatives, like HOPE, or [Connect a Kid], which seeks to increase access to technology in developing nations. We have raised nearly $25,000, and our initiatives have impacted hundreds around the world while also developing a new generation of leaders. Kids from as far as Israel are creating environmental projects, eradicating poverty, improving education and healthcare, promoting peace and much more. Please consider my application so I may spread and amplify my message of the power of youth!

Al' Shondra Harris - National Finalist (Grant amount -$10,000)

Its prom season and teens around the states are preparing for what will be one of their most exciting times in their life. They are buying gowns, being fitted for tuxedos, deciding on what vehicle to pull up in to be admired by all of your peers. While Al’Shondra peers were working on their prom attire Al’Shondra was busy working on what others will be able to wear to the Prom. She set out to collect as many Prom gowns, shoes and accessories as she could so that some girl that didn’t have money to buy, would still have something to wear. Al’Shondra petitioned stores, recent graduates with updated gowns, staff and others until the gowns started rolling in. She had high heels, low heels, pointed toes, open toes, shiny, clear, and every color you can name shoe to help some girl Prom night to be special. When Al’Shondra finished collecting, she opened her doors for girls to get the gowns. She had collected over 150 gowns to benefit 8 local High Schools and 1 parenting school for teen parents who want to attend their prom. She provided a gown to a homeless teen as well. For some of those girls this was the best thing that happened to them. Al’Shondra felt that collecting gowns would benefit teenage girls with financial hardship. She felt it is important for every teenage girl to have the memory of attending at least one prom during their high school year, if this is what they wanted. She made sure everything was handled discreetly so there was no embarrassment for the girls. This was a great success!

Josh Allredge - National Finalist (Grant amount -$10,000)

When you think of a hero, you make think of a fireman that has risked his life to save a family from a burning fire. It may be a Police Officer that saved a child from a car accident. There are also those heroes that are fighting for our freedom while leaving their families behind. I would like to tell you about a young hero that is a Junior at Gaston School and a member of the Gaston Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Alabama Unit. The amazing thing about Josh is he was not supposed to live after the 6th grade. He has Duchene's Muscular Dystrophy, a fatal disease of the muscular system. Although Josh could walk and do normal things when he was young, his disease has slowly left him in a wheelchair, with only use of his hands. Throughout Josh's health problems he has maintained a 4.0 G.P.A, and is ranked in the top 10 of his class. Josh loves school, and being around his classmates. This is not what makes Josh a hero. It is what Josh does for everyone else. He is a member of the "Key Club" of Gaston, an organization that provides community service for others. He has participated in the "Red Cross Blood Drive", "Christmas for other Children", "March of Dimes", "MDA Fundraiser", and a coat and blanket drive for the homeless. Josh also work at the Gaston Unit of the Boys & Girls Club, where he is Math Tutor for the 4th grade. He also will be running our science program during the summer. Josh is such an inspiration to our students, because through his example he teaches them that no disability should keep you from doing what you want to do. Josh never wants to be a burden on others. He is a true teen hero, that we need more of in this world.

Traver Dodorye - National Finalist (Grant amount -$10,000)

Traver Dodorye is the real definition of a Global Citizen. Since the beginning of his senior year (graduated class of 2007) until this day, he has usefully organized and implemented a club called "Save the Innocence in Darfur” at the Leo Goodwin Foundation Teen Center in North Lauderdale, Florida. In conjunction with a Teen Leadership group at the Teen Center called Keystone Club, Traver has raised money, but more importantly awareness about the war torn and disease infested Darfur region in Africa. Traver has literally dedicated his life to helping others in his community by volunteering his time at the Boys and Girls Club in North Lauderdale, Florida. Also spreading his talents by becoming an assistant coach for The South Florida Dawgs Inc.Traver Dodorye is a fantastic artist, community leader, and dedicated coach and mentor. Traver believes that because he lives in his community, on this earth that it is his responsibility to care for it. His favorite quote by Muhammad Ali reads as follows, "Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth."

Tori Myles - National Finalist (Grant amount -$10,000)

How do you get teenagers to volunteer? Easy….give them service hours at school. How do you get teenagers to ENJOY volunteer work? Tough. But it’s not a hard job with 17 year old Tory Myles. She has coordinated and participated in winter coat drives, restoring historical parks, doing hair care for nursing home residents and neighborhood clean ups. Her favorite…The Anacostia River Clean-up where she participated in cleaning the historic river located near the River Terrace community of Washington, DC. The Anacostia Waterfront Corporation approached Tory’s Club to participate in the neighborhood clean up and to help a community see its river. Tory jumped right in volunteering as crew leader, making sure they had everything needed while keeping her crew on task. Since then Tory has also volunteered to testify in front of the D.C. City Council on behalf of the AWC and the work she did at the river. Tory also takes care of her teenage community as well. Her Keystone Club hosted the 3rd annual Step Up Day against substance abuse and Tory volunteered to facilitate workshops to teens about underage drinking. She facilitated informational workshops and gave a test on the material for teen’s ages 14-18. Tory used her teen influence to get teens in the know about the dangers of underage drinking and gave up her Saturday morning to host 10 workshops. She is such an awesome teen to work with as she is enthusiastic about volunteering and never complains. 

Ben Marshall - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Ben Marshall has been an active member at the Rotterdam Boys & Girls Club since he was eight years old. As Ben has grown older he has become a very positive role model for not only the younger members, but mostly the members in his age group. Often times when there is a special event being help at the Club, the members don’t want to volunteer and help out because they would rather be playing and enjoying the activities that are taking place. Not Ben. Even though he would like to participate in the events, he takes a different approach. Ben will be the leader of an activity instead of a participant. A great example of this is, the numerous amounts of time and volunteer work he puts into the Halloween carnival held every year at the Rotterdam Boys & Girls Club. Ben always chooses which carnival game he will direct. He comes early to make sure the game is set up, make sure he has enough prizes & candy and most importantly to put on his costume. Ben directs the game for the entire event despite how many times his friends say “come on, let’s go play other games and go through the haunted house”. Ben tells them that he has made a commitment to his carnival game and he will catch up with them when he either has a break or the event is over. Ben has stated that when he was younger he saw older members doing the games he played and he thinks it’s important to give back as it was given to him.

Michelle Herrera - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

I am nominating Michelle Herrera for this award who is a member of the Pueblo of Pojoaque Boys and Girls Club. She is a true role model and example for all of our members to follow.  Michelle is a 17 year old Junior at Pojoaque High School, holds a 3.8GPA, member of the National Honor Society, Keystone Club Vice-President, Torch Club Advisor, Stardancer Coach at the Club and Assistant Technology Director.  Even with all these responsibilities she also President of her 4H Club and shows her animals at the local county and New Mexico State Fair.  She competes in several horseback riding and rodeo events.   She was named the Clubs 2008 Youth of the Year and most recently was named State of New Mexico Youth of the Year. She has received a $2,000 college scholarship from the Charles Schwab Foundation for her participation in BGCA Money Matters.  She goes above and beyond to assist the younger members of our Club and assists them with a recycling program through Staples.  She has also received $1,000 college scholarships from PPBGC, NM Area Council and Readers Digest, all as only a Junior in High School.  This young lady always goes above and beyond with whatever project she undertakes and this short essay does her a disservice due to the limited space available to describe exactly who she is and what she is all about.  Hopefully you can see this shining star on the rise as we do.

Laura McCarver - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Laura demonstrates a high level of moral character daily: honesty; self-confidence; diligence; bravery and respect; just to name a few. Laura believes in conforming to these values and serves as a role model for others. Extra curricular activities, volunteering, and other community activities tell her story. Laura has become a leader in her community. She has worked on everything from planning teen forums, help hotlines,fundraisers and adoption fairs, The Boys & Girls Clubs of North Georgia is thankful that we have become one of the many "projects" she has decided to devote her valuable time to. Laura is the president of the Pickens County Library Teen Advisory Board. She develops agendas for all meetings, plans and implements special events to encourage teens to utilize the services provided by the library. She has recognized that teens "need and want" a "voice" in the community. During the Georgia Marble Marching Festival Laura, worked tirelessly to ensure that visiting band members felt welcome and were taken care of. These efforts included but were not limited too, loading and unloading instruments and equiment, serving food, escorting bands to practice stations, carrying written messages to the announcer, etc. Laura was selected to serve on the Pickens County Youth Leadership Council. She demonstrated true leadership in all aspects of her role as a council member. She graduated the program and takes this experience with her to volunteer wherever needed. She volunteers for the BGCNG, the Sea Dragons, the Pickens Library, and anyone else who asks.

Wayland Mullins - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

As a Keystoner I made a positive impact by being a leader not a follower. I show this by being positive staying focused on the Boys & Girls Club. This is my first year being apart of the Boys & Girls Club. I am new to the community of Bywater and i didn’t know anyone. Also I am new to the Keystone club. I started to take responsibility and help out with the club. I show responsibility by helping setting up the new computers at our club when the club first reopened after the renovation. I also help clean up at the club when it is closed. Also I help the younger kids with their homework and mentor them. I am someone that the kids can look up to and get advice from. I give kids advice on how to become successful in life, also what it takes to graduate from high school and go to college, how to get straight A’s in school, and how an education is important and why you need to stay in school and not be in the streets. I also read to the kids and help out with our gardening project for our club. I am also apart of the Global Youth Service Day. We are going to do a food drive for our community.

Nathan Derek Newell - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Nathan has been a fixture around the Boys and Girls Club for the past four years.
An “A” honor roll student Nathan was involved in both his school and Keystone Blood Drives. The Keystone Club collected over 130 pints of blood. Nathan has been a Salvation Army Bell Ringer for the past four years. Nathan has spent many hours tutoring our younger children here at the Boys and Girls Club. Many of these children come from single family homes. Nathan has served as a waiter at our Steak and Burger Dinner, cleaned up after 5,000 messy eaters following our annual Pancake Day and collected fifty hats for the Hats for Hope program to support breast cancer victims. I think you can tell by all these things that Nathan Newell is a conscientious, principled and well respected young man. There are few words in and of themselves that can pay tribute to his achievement; however, one such as Nathan does not need words, his actions speak most notably of his character and personality. I know through his involvement through the Boys and Girls Club and his school Nathan has volunteered over 400 hours the last 4 years.

Kristine Austin - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Kristine Austin is a remarkable teen and a hero to many. She has stared adversity in the face on multiple occasions. Because of her hard work ethic and desire to improve the quality of her life she has touched so many. Kristine does not let the fact that she has had hardships in her life stop her. Every day she challenges herself, her peers and adults alike to make a difference in someone’s life. Kristine has been a hero to several elderly adults in the community. She takes time out of her weekends when most teens are hanging out with friends and going to the movies to help older people with much needed housework. She helps them with laundry, pulling weeds around their houses, cooking, and everyday duties like dusting and windows. She is their hero because without her much of this work would not get done with their limited mobility. While she is there she also acts as a companion and friend. I would like to nominate Kristine Austin for going well above what is asked of her to make a difference and be someone’s hero.

Kevin Dillon - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

I weatherized a home for a low income family in order to lower their energy payments by approximately 300 dollars. Weatherization consists of weather stripping the inside window frames, calking around the exterior of the windows and doors, placing plugs in electrical sockets, and installing energy efficient light bulbs that last for seven years. In preparation for weatherization, I participated in a weatherizing clinic at The Home Depot. The Home Depot assisted me in finding all of the materials necessary to perform a complete efficient job. From the training I received, I thoroughly taught each person in my Student Senate organization, 20 students including me, the correct way to weather strip and caulk. However, when we arrived at the house it was in worse conditions than we expected. The family had oversized leaks and cracks in the roof, around the toilet, sink, and bathtub. I overcame these obstacles by dividing the group into separate teams with very specific tasks. In no more than two hours, we successfully finished weatherizing the house. The family was greatly appreciative. We lowered their energy payments, increasing their savings and spending money. Because of weatherization, the family had more money to buy larger quantities of necessary items and was able to start making other much needed repairs.

Michael Chavez - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Michael came into the club with an attitude and really showing that he was trouble and wanted everyone to know it. To say the least Michael and the staff had problems. Isabel, club director, sat Michael down and talked with him about his attitude and opportunities for growth. A light bulb went off on Micahel's head. He needed to change. Michael is a model citizen of the club today. He is truly a leader. Michael has volunteered for our Jaunted House for the past two years. He has helped designed the Haunted House, build the Haunted House and was a character in the Haunted House. At Christmas, Michael helps distribute over 50,000 toys to the area families. He is at the club when we set-up and when we close. He restocks the shelves, breaks down boxes, assist families as they pick out toys for their children and helps them carry them out to their vehicle. Michael has come a long way in the past three years. He was a candidate for the Youth of the Year, but he was too young. He helps the club staff clean up the facility, and is always around to give a helping hand. Michael's leadership has been recognized not only by the staff but also his peers. Michael is an officer in our Torch Club that was newly developed. He is a true hero. Not only by his leadership, but accepting his negative attitude and choosing to change it for the betterment of this peers and himself.

Mandy Belmont - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Mandy is a very caring and compassionate person. She has a true passion for community service and spends most of her weekends doing service projects at her high school or here at the Club. Mandy is active in her school and at the Boys & Girls Club of Collier County. At school, she is the basketball team manager and runs the score boards for the weekend games. She often works in the concession stand to help raise funds for the school’s athletic program.
When Mandy is at the Club, she is always looking for ways to help. Mandy hopes of being a chef one day and often volunteers in the kitchen with the staff to distribute snacks and prepare meals. She is the secretary of the Collier Keystone Club and is the chair of the Service Projects Committee. During her time in Collier Keystone, she has participated in Club dances, beach clean ups, mentoring programs, and sorting out our Club library.
Collier Keystone Club is in the process of doing a “Penny Wars” battle at our Club to raise funds for Malaria No More. Mandy is one of the teens leading this project. She has also helped plan, along with other keystoners, a carnival that will be at the Club this weekend to raise more funds for Malaria No More in observance of Global Youth Service Day.
Mandy has strong leadership skills and has the motivation to plan and implement many more service projects. She is a true teen hero.

Ciara Pagan - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Ciara has made a positive impact on many different levels and in a variety of ways. She has impacted her school, Club and community. Serving as senior class president, Ciara raised enough money for her class to have a homecoming parade and prom. Through her hard work and dedication she organized meetings with other officers and committee members and contacted corporate sponsors for donations. She also volunteers at a local elementary school and assist with tutoring those students who need extra help. At the Club Ciara helps with the homework Club (Powerhour) and also with serving dinner to the members. She is an active participant in the Take Back Our Streets program where members adopt an area around the Club and clean their immediate neighborhoods. Ciara has accomplished all of this while being a member of the basketball and track and field teams. In track she placed fourth in the state meet competing in the triple jump. She has also earned a full academic scholarship to a four year university.

Dimitri Ferrier - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

I am Dimitri Willem Ferrier Jr. my club nominated me to be their “Teen Hero” for the Stafford Boys & Girls Clubs. When I was ten years old I stated to my 3rd grade teacher Ms. Dearman that, “one day I would open up a school to teach and motivate kids in a positive way”. My first community service assignment was as a crossing guard at Ridgemont Elementary. I was awarded volunteer of the month twice in a row. After that job I decided to seek local community centers for more assignments. That’s when I met Mr. Reggie Dixon former Harlem Globetrotter and Fort Bend athletic director he performed at my school concert advertising the Fort Bend Boys & Girls Clubs. My mother took me to the club to meet the staff and sign up. I decided to work in the Gameroom with Ms. Trina. I did over two years of community service with Ms. Bledsoe. I also volunteered at the Stafford Boys & Girls Clubs assisting with athletics, art, membership, social recreation, and technology. I have also implemented my own program called “Teens With Dreams” a program I designed to give young men a chance to interact with other teens and adult mentors to realize our educational, health, social, career, and drug free goals. I am a self-motivated teen with a positive mind working hard to achieve my goals in life. When people ask why I work for free I replied, “I enjoy being a teen leader, role model, and being a part of the Stafford team”. I also volunteer as a traffic coordinator for Kipp Houston making sure that the kids can cross safely.  I am more than honored to be nominated teen hero of my club.

Dana Lewis - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Anyone, young or old, can make a difference! I volunteer with the American Diabetes Association(ADA) and campaign to include people of all ages in ADA activities. I traveled to more than 12 states and spoke to more than 2,000 kids with diabetes about the power of advocacy and involvement. I increased the number of youth participants in the biannual “Call to Congress” program. I have spoken to legislators and testified before a Senate committee.Currently, I am the youngest person on a national volunteer committee and recently lobbied to change the definition of “youth” in the organization to include young adults in order to provide resources for people with diabetes in times of transition in their lives - instead of being cut off at age 18, young adults will get assistance, resources, and support from the ADA up until age 30. I am also piloting a new support initiative for young adults with diabetes in college. I created a curriculum and have support from my university to create a transition class for first year students with diabetes to provide support, education, and up-to-the-minute research to these students as they adjust to living on their own (and can receive academic credit!). I initiated a system to provide nutrition labels online and in dining facilities on campus, directly impacting over 25,000 students and the surrounding community and their daily lives. One single person can make a change in a community, no matter the age! Go out there and make a difference!

Megan Tounget - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Growing up in today's world can be a great challenge even for the most prepared kids. Megan Tunget has been a member of the Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence for almost two years. She credits much of her current success to her involvement in the Boys & Girls Club. Megan has a vested interest in saving the Haskell Wet Lands. The wet lands are a many acre area that was given to Haskell Indian Nations University many, many years ago. The county is now looking at putting a road through the wet lands to ease traffic concerns in the city. Megan has organized efforts to educate the city and community of the importance of the wet lands to the Native American community and the Lawrence community. She has spent countless hours working on letters to editors and other important community members. Megan even organized an effort with ther friends to sit in front of a bulldozer that was to start clearing an area in the wet lands.
Megan wants to be the first Woman American president. She works very hard at being a positive role model for her peers as well as younger kids. She is very dedicated to the cause of caring for her family and to learning everything she can about her Native American heritage. Megan's drive and determination has definitely made an impact in the Lawrence community and the Boys & Girls Club community.

Jimmy Bouchard - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

I have been volunteering in my community my whole life. When I volunteer, I don't just do it for nothing…I try to leave a little piece of myself somewhere and to change it for the better. For the last 2 years, I have been lead junior staff at my local Boy's Club (now Boy's and Girl's Club). I started volunteering as a baseball umpire and basketball referee. During school, I am the educational director, heading the Lights on after school and Power Hour programs. Once a week I am the peer leader for the 8.M.A.R.T. (Skills Mastery and Resistance Training) Moves program that teaches kids in three age groups, 6-9, 10-12, and 13-15, about alcohol, tobacco, other drugs, and teen pregnancy prevention. I am currently the chartered president of the up and coming Triple Play program which focuses on staying healthy by being active and practicing healthy eating habits. I take great pride in my work because I see a real impact in how these kids have changed since I started volunteering. The Boy's and Girl's Club of Oak Ridge means a great deal to me and the kids make everything worth it... even if they can be a handful at times. I have roughly accumulated 2500 hours of volunteering here at 'the club' in the last two years, and I have loved every minute of it.

Ernesto Alvarez - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Ernesto Alvarez had been a member of the Westside Branch since he was six years old. We can say without a doubt that Ernie has had the greatest impact in the history of this branch. Ernie has volunteered over 1,500 hours from the 7th grade on. He is the heart and soul of the Westside. Ernie helps with everything the Westside does. He volunteers in our Power Hour Program, Computer Lab, teaches Dance and Drama, builds and directs our Haunted House production, coordinates our involvement in the Lions Club Fish Fry, and he is our liaison with Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID)Program at Estancia High School. Ernie is currently the President of our Keystone Group. He was on the Pacific Region Keystone Conference in San Diego. Ernie has raised the standard of what a Westside Branch Club Member should be and what is expected of them. He is an outstanding role model and he is what leaders are made of. We are proud and honor to nominate a young man who has changed our world by giving of his time and talents. His energy, excitement and commitment are astounding. We can not imagine a world where the Westside did not have Ernie, and we give thanks everyday we do not live in that world without him.Congrats, Ernie!

Andy Marthin - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Volunteering at my Boys & Girls Club has been a great experience for me and I hope that it has been a great experience for the kids that I have worked with. I am a member of the Lide White Boys & Girls Club and have been a member there, since I was 4 years old. I learned a long time ago, that the volunteers that work at the Club are some of the best people I know and I wanted to be like them. Some people thinks that when you volunteer at a place like the Boys & Girls Club, that it's work, but I think volunteering at my Club is fun and is more like a game. I hope that someday, some of the little kids that I have worked with will look up to me like I have looked up to some of the people that worked with me. Some of the things that I have done at my Club are teaching T -Ball, refereeing flag football games and wrestling matches, watching the games room, monitoring the gym and organizing games in there, helping set up chairs for special events and helping clean up after special events. Our Director told me that we might have a chance to win some money for our Club and I know that our Club is in great need of money so I wanted to try to help them since they have helped me and many other kids just like me. Thanks.

DeShaun Holden - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

DeShaun Holden is a young man with a dream of becoming successful in the communications field.  He encourages and helps others each day through his school, club and community services.  After becoming a member of the Boys & Girls Club, DeShaun is quick to inform anyone how becoming a member has encouraged him to seek the aspiring goals he has set for himself.  DeShaun has developed and created a music lab for the club.  Through his persistence and high- energy love for music and computers, DeShaun set up an area for the teens to learn to create and develop musical tracks as well as teach younger members.  This area also includes a recording room.  After noticing the impact this project had on current members and an increase in teen membership, it was time for additional financial assistance.  A collaboration was developed with the local university’s Fine Arts Department as well.  Being a member of the club’s Keystone Club,  allows for DeShaun to exercise his leadership skills.  He has represented the Club in several service activities such as Special Olympics, Relay for Life, Health Fairs, Fun Days and Community Clean-up.  Whenever an event is planned at the club, he  is always asked  to provide the music for the event.  He also serves as a role model for younger members.

Andrea Jones - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Our teen hero at the Boys & Girls Club of Janesville is Andrea Jones. Andrea has exemplified heroic tendencies because she attends the Club daily at her own will. Andrea has been presented with her own obstacles in life that most teens wouldn't recover from. Andrea enters the club with a smile and passion to compliment her endeavors while at the club. Some of her attributes are consistently attending the club with a delightful attitude regardless of what goes on in her personal life. Andrea helps with preparing meals, substituting for staff to ensure members get proper programming, achieving Youth of The Year, Torch Club, and many other honors.

Christopher K. Presley - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

In the course of human events, it becomes necessary for us to explore new endeavors. One may follow the path of others and stick with tradition, or choose the road less traveled and make a mark to improve our society. Although it is often hard to achieve certain goals in my surroundings. I've managed to overcome the struggle. Growing up in a rural part of Mississippi has its disadvantages of deprived resources in school and the community. Through my many volunteer experiences at the Boys & Girls Club of Northwest Mississippi, I've definitely found ways to improve my community so that the adolescents will have many opportunities for success. While being at the club, I've made significant contributions for the staff and members. I first started this program just thinking I would tutor kids, but it turned out to be a major impact on my life and the club. Not only have I helped organize some of the programs such as the backpack program, which sends food home to the members every weekend, but I've donated numerous books, toys, and school supplies so that each member will have no reason to doubt their success. Volunteering has helped me realize that everyone, whether young or old, can make people feel confident and help others overlook their adversities. My mission for the members of the Boys & Girls Club has been to prevent as many obstacles throughout their adolescent experiences, making it likely for them to succeed.

Erika Matadamas - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

When Erika joined the Boys & Girls Club two years ago, she was drawn to helping members with homework and staff with projects. Her interest in service and stewardship led her to the Keystone Club. Now, as Keystone Treasurer, Erika has volunteered at many events for the Club and community. She has actively supported Nickelodeon's Worldwide Day of Play, Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County's Senior Prom, and the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life in Salinas. As a leader, Erika takes great care in mobilizing people by giving clear instructions and guidance. She is a soft-spoken young woman, but leads with purpose and determination. Her leadership style is unique among her peers, and she is well respected by them. Outside of the Clubhouse, Erika volunteers two Sundays a month at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. She is often relied upon to do Spanish translation for many visitors and shares her knowledge on the history of the fishing industry in the Bay. Visitors often request that Erika guide tours of specific exhibits in the Aquiarium. She educates them on conservation and the Bay's natural resources. This not only enhances the visitor's experience through education, but her interest and care for the environment is conveyed as well. There is no doubt Erika will continue volunteering and investing in any community she lives in. The Club has been a vehicle for her to build confidence and develop her talents. We are very fortunate to work with Erika and recognize her as the Teen Hero in our Clubs and in our community.

Kendrick Dartis - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Kendrick has been a member at our club for several years. In those years, he has volunteered with the Keystone Club at several events such as Uncle Dave Macon Days, Charity Circle Dinner, and others.  Kendrick is very active within his church congregation and therefore does quite a bit of mission work.  Kendrick has also volunteered substantial amounts of time to our club. He serves as a Junior Staff and helps in our Power Hour Program. He also serves as a spokesperson for our programs around the community. Whenever he is asked, he always willingly attends our club events (He has served as Master of Ceremonies at our Steak & Burger and our Annual Dinner) and other community events (he has spoken on behalf of the club in community meetings, Rotary meetings, etc.) Kendrick is always quick to help any member out and is a reliable resource for our club and community.

Jordan Somer - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

I am the 2007 Miss Nebraska Junior Teen – Jordan Somer. In November of 2007 I founded the Miss Amazing Pageant for girls and young women with disabilities. The 1st annual event was held November 3, 2007. Contestants competed in interview, introduction, and evening gown for the opportunity to win the title of Miss Amazing in six divisions. An optional talent showcase provided entertainment with dancing, singing, poetry, piano and other instruments performed by the contestants. Six queens were crowned and the remaining contestants were crowned a princess. All contestants received a trophy for the overall competition and a medal for participating in talent.

Tyeca Reviere - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Tyeca is an active member of our Keystone Club. She was instrumental in coming up with the idea to have a march in honor of MKL Day. The theme of the march was: “Look how far we have come…although the struggle continues.” The march was attended by over 400 club members, VIPs and residents of the area. The Keystone Club members also organized a poster contest with coincided with the theme. The posters were carried during the march. In addition teen members of the Olivet submitted essay’s on “What Dr. King meant to them” Tyeca’s essay was selected as a winner and she presented her essay during the opening ceremonies at our MLK Day Read-In. She also presented the essay during a program for Black History. She has volunteered her services on the weekend to help pass out flyers in the community to aid in the prevention of graffiti. She has participated in an AIDS and meth awareness workshop. She assisted in facilitating a workshop on Unity for our club members. She is a member of the Olivet’s AAU Girls basketball team and actively volunteers in the club. She has assisted staff with the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA program. Tyeca is a member who you can always count on to participate in an event. She continually demonstrates her leadership abilities and academic achievements which makes her a hero in our eyes.

Emily Holzmann - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Community service gives you a sense of accomplishment, and provides an avenue to do good deeds," states our nominee Emily Holzmann. This young lady's spirit of volunteerism is evident in the numerous volunteer efforts she has been involved in which has earned her the Gold Presidential Service awards for her 500+ hours of community service for three consecutive years. As a Boys & Girls Club youth Board Member and 2008 Youth of the Year candidate she is always on the lookout for ways to inspire and motivate younger Club members. Emily continues her role as Keystone Club president and member of the Youth Volunteer Corps. She takes pride in finding innovative ways to promote community and Club service. Her willingness to challenge Keystone Club members to provide positive role modeling in the Club and community has made her an extraordinary addition to the Boys and Girls Club. Emily exemplifies high standards and a commitment to do what is right. Her leadership qualities are what set her apart from the crowd, along with her willingness to set a good example through her actions. Emily refrains from the use of drugs and alcohol adhering to the belief that a person's body should be well cared for and respected. Emily is a consistent role model in her Club and community, feeling that it is everyone's responsibility to put their best foot forward. "Taking responsibility for your actions is the only way to be a positive role model", Emily Holzmann, 2008.

Damiequa Ross - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

After being a member of the Boys & Girls Club for eight years Damiequa is now one of our staff members. Besides being a staff member Damiequa has also been a volunteer basketball coach for the 3rd & 4th Grade boys. She talks to her team about the importance of working together and being a part of a successful team. She is also our current President of the Keystone Club. She earned this position by being a leader to both her peers as well as the younger members. She took time to call members to get them involved in our Keystone Activities such as the Lions Club pancake breakfast, cleaning up the grounds around the Club and visiting the residents in the nursing home. Since she has done so much for the Club and its members Damiequa is currently our Stateline Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year.

Oscar Rios - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Oscar has been a member of the club for nearly eight years. Over the past two years he has become involved with Keystone and has started volunteering in all areas of the club. When Oscar first became a teenager, he was often found hanging around not getting into much. He then joined up with Keystone and became very involved in volunteering around the club. Oscar has started working in a local community garden as a volunteer for a market around the corner from the club. Community residents are invited to come out and purchase vegetables and fruits from nearby farms. Oscar is now a positive role model for all the kids here at the club. When he is not running snack bar or working at the farmers market, he can be found in the gym coaching the kids in basketball and soccer. Oscar has definitely helped the club in his volunteering, but just seeing the type of young man he is becoming is far more rewarding.Oscar is now always looking for ways to get involved with the various programs around the club. He is taking his role as treasurer of Keystone very seriously as he is always planning events to help Keystone with fundraising. Oscar has changed his behavior drastically in the past two years. His volunteer work has made an extrememly positive impact on both Oscar and the Club.

Alicia McDowell - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Alicia is a model student and example to many people. She is always willing to participate in any community service opportunity that comes up. Her volunteer work includes everything from beach and city beautification clean ups, dedicating her time to care for younger children at her church, teaching dance to younger teens at the Boys & Girls Club, encouraging and supporting runners at the 2008 Carlsbad Marathon, volunteering for the Special Olympics, making blankets for children and teens in the hospital, painting faces and running games for children at local kids carnivals, singing the National Anthem at numerous events for the Club and serving as an officer in a variety of clubs like the president of the Keystone Club at the Boys & Girls Club of San Marcos and also on her school campus like M.E.CH.A Club and Interact Club. Alicia also served on the 2008 Pacific Region Keystone Conference Steering Committee, where she planned and implemented ideas that resulted in an amazing conference where over 300 teens were given a great experience and learned how to give back to their club and community. Alicia’s passion and drive to serve her community is admirable. She understands the importance of giving back to the community. She is also enrolled in AP courses at school, maintaining a great GPA, and dances on her high school’s Varsity Dance Team. She has been accepted to five universities and has a bright future ahead of her.

Sejal Hathi - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

I am a 16-year-old peacemaker who believes that all girls have the power to shape their globe and assert themselves as ambassadors for change. When I was fifteen, I founded the international nonprofit organization Girls Helping Girls (GHG) to empower all girls to transform their world by mobilizing them through a series of initiatives to Eradicate Poverty, Increase Access to Education, Improve Health, and Promote Peace. Amplifying GHG into a global movement, I started our Empower-a-Girl Initiative, which is a unique sister-group program that partners teen girls in the U.S. with those in developing countries to dialogue and collaborate toward achieving the U.N. Millennium Development Goals; and our Sisters 4 Peace Network, a social-change movement that provides the training, Toolkits, and mentorship to aspiring girl changemakers around the globe who are working independently from a team to launch their own projects. Seeking to empower all youth to create change, I moreover co-authored a monographic book on engaging at-risk youth in service, and continue to mentor hundreds of girls even outside GHG to transmute their passions into action. I have engaged nearly 500 girls from over eight countries in Asia, Africa, and North America and raised over $10,000 to support their education and basic living thus far. By uniting girls across cultural divides, my mission is to democratize the quest for peace worldwide by creating a sisterhood of changemakers making their vision for the world a reality. Please support me in promulgating my message of peace by considering my application!

Corissa Clinard - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Therapeutic Equestrian Center would like to nominate Corissa Clinard as a candidate for the Teen Hero Award. In 2007, Corissa volunteered 167.5 hours at TEC. She assisted in our lesson program by working with our students with special needs. She exercised the horses and helped at our special events. She is very hard working and dependable. Her positive attitude and willingness to volunteer whenever and wherever needed makes her a joy to work with. To date this year, Corissa has accumulated over 45 hours. In addition to her involvement at TEC, Corissa is very active in the community. As a member of the Niles High School German Club, she has helped clean up the shores of the St. Joseph River in Niles, MI and helped prepare food for the homeless. With the Niles High School Ecology Club, Corissa picked up trash along US 31 and also recylced paper. With the Boots 'N Saddles 4-H Club, Corissa wrapped and delivered Christmas presents to a family in need. With her involvement in these organizations, Corissa Clinard has helped improve the lives of many people in our community. She truly is a teen hero.

Darryll N. Roberts - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

During her 7 year membership at the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield, Darryll has grown into a strong young adult who consistently gives back to her community. As president of the Boys & Girls Club’s Keystone Club, a service and leadership club, Darryll is always willing to take a project from infancy to completion, proving she is a valuable asset to special Club events. Darryll always makes an effort to participate in as many volunteer events as possible. She participated in Night Out Against Crime with the Westfield Police Department helping the community fight back against crime. Dressed as the Easter Bunny, she visited soldiers’ homes and local nursing homes on behalf of the Marine Corps. She volunteered at every Vintage Baseball game to raise money for Keystone and served breakfast to over 100 veterans at the Club’s Veterans Day Breakfast. She helped organize and run 2 clothing distribution events, making it possible for over 100 women to receive free clothing. At school, Darryll is a student assistant in the special education program, where she mentors a boy with Autism. The community has taken notice of Darryll’s efforts to give back. She was the recipient of the Good Citizens Award through Kiwanis and served as a student leader at Kiwanis’s Leadership Camp. She received the Keystone Citizenship award on behalf of the Keystone Club for their continuous support of military kids. She has been named the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield’s 2008 Youth of the Year.

Tyler Placeres - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

I am Tyler Placeres and I am a teen hero in my community because everyday I help inspire kids in my community by helping them with their homework and talking to them about drugs in and throughout the community. Everyday I go to the Boy's and Girl's Club and help the kids do his or her homework. I also spend time with them afterwards to talk about substance abuse. Every kid should know that the way to success is though your education and staying away from drugs and alcohol. I put in at least three to five hours each and every week helping kids with there homework and talking to them about drugs. By putting in these hours I am bettering myself and the kids to not take drugs or alcohol and to achieve in school. The kids who I work with see me as a leader and a person to look up to in and throughout the community. I help the kids take part in State Education Days. The kids always put there best foot forward when they are now taking on challenges. I help motivate these kids to go reach to other kids and tell them to strive for the best. The only way to succeed is to stay away from drugs and alcohol and to maintain good grades in school.

Megan Ocano - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

I have always heard that if you give a man a fish you can feed him for a day, but if you teach a man to fish then you feed him for a lifetime. I believe in doing things to help people that can change lives. That is why I have volunteered at my Boys and Girls Club for the past 4 years. I have worked with many of my peers and have learned that I can accomplish more by example than by words. I work almost everyday to help those around me become better people. I also work side by side with my mother to do animal rescue. In the past 10 years we have saved more than 70 dogs and cats and found them good homes. We have nursed turtles, raccoons, chickens, rabbits, squirrels and a horse to good health. I have learned from my mom that every creature is special and deserves a chance at a good life.

Ali Rawaf - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Ali Rawaf is an amazing young man. He came to the United States as an exchange student, and has since applied for political asylum. He has a heart of compassion and service that I have never seen before in anyone, and it is difficult to capture the many nuances of his passions and activities. He is committed to secular democracy in his country and has had a political blog since he was fourteen as "democratic man" which resulted in many threats on his life, and several assassination attempts. He continues blogging several hours a day, both in English and Arabic. From the very beginning of his time here, he has volunteered eagerly to help everyone everywhere he was able, from the Tucson Triathlon to Tucson Meet Yourself, and helping the elderly; he has an especially tender heart towards them, and spent many long hours in the summer Tucson sun repairing coolers and broken water pipes with Community Home Repair of Tucson. In the fall of 2007 Ali heard of a group of Iraqi refugees who had recently arrived in Tucson and he spearheaded a campaign to find them clothing, furniture, and household goods- he filled our living room and hallway four feet high with stuff. But more importantly, he has spent four to eight hours A DAY tutoring, helping fill out job applications, taking folks to doctor appointments, the hospital and drug stores, and most of all encouraging these hurting families through a very difficult transition.

Marketa LaPointe - Runner Up (Grant amount -$5,000)

Marketa LaPointe has set the bar for all Club members to strive for. Being the head color guard for her high school, a member of H.O.S.A., and taking part in her numerous activities and events that take place throughout senior year, she still finds time to be an involved member in the Club, and in the community. Marketa is admired by her peers, and is seen as a role model. Every week, she makes time to prepare bags for families within the Club and community to take home, ensuring that food is available for the members. During the Club’s power hour, Marketa peer tutors, due to her being an Honor Roll student, and even helps a few younger members who have trouble with reading. She’s an inspiration to her peers, and pushes them to give, and not always take. Marketa herself has even said, “You can never give back enough, especially your time.” Days when the members are out of school, and we order pizza or something, and the delivery man won’t come because of the neighborhood, Marketa volunteers to pick up the order without being asked to. There’s nothing myself, any other staff, or even the member’s couldn’t ask Marketa to do that she wouldn’t do, and, most importantly, she does it with a smile.