ALABAMA: BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS NAMES 2024 YOUTH OF THE YEAR

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Boys & Girls Clubs of West Alabama has been a cornerstone in the community, providing young people with the guidance, resources, and skills they need to reach their full potential. Our mission is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. For more than 63 years, Boys Girls Clubs of West Alabama has served local youth as a fun, safe place to belong and to become.

“Youth of the Year is our story. For the community, Youth of the Year is the personification of what a Boys & Girls Club experience is, and it’s the best story we tell.” In a video aired at the Youth of the Year luncheon, BGCWA President CEO Kim Turner shared a message to the finalists saying, “You’re a winner! Just because only one person can be our youth of the year, each and every one of you are exemplary young people who are role models for all of the young people who come to your Club.”

Bester was named the 2024 Youth of the Year for Boys & Girls Clubs of West Alabama at the annual luncheon presented by Coca-Cola on February 11th at the Tuscaloosa River Market. Bester will progress to compete in Montgomery for the state Youth of the Year. This prestigious award recognizes the outstanding achievements of a Club member who has demonstrated academic excellence, leadership skills, and a commitment to serving others.

Youth of the Year also celebrated senior finalists Kirsten Croxton and Abriyah White. Jr. Youth of the Year Finalists included Taylin Dailey, Devyn McCarter, Autumn Prince, Dexter Ryans, Mikinley Skinner, and Kelsey Wilkins.

Bester, a Hale County High School senior, aspiring engineer and politician stated, “For me, Youth of the Year is not just a competition - it’s a celebration of growth, resilience, and leadership. It’s a chance to reflect on how far I’ve come. It’s about being a role model for younger members of the Club and showing them that no matter where they start, they can achieve great things

Youth of the Year is an annual celebration hosted by Boys & Girls Clubs of West Alabama. To get involved in the 2025 Youth of the Year luncheon, please contact Ashley Cornelius at ashley@bgcwestal.org. For information about Boys & Girls Clubs of West Alabama, please visit bgcwestal.org. About Boys & Girls Clubs of West Alabama.