Alizabeth Ashton Named 2021 BGCTC Youth of the Year
Olympia, WA (Feb 2, 2021)—Rochester High School senior and Running Start student at Centralia College, Alizabeth Ashton, representing the Rochester Boys & Girls Club, was named the 2021 Boys & Girls Clubs of Thurston County Youth of the Year at the organization’s annual celebration held January 29. She earned the Youth of the Year honor by competing alongside nominees representing four Thurston County Club locations.
Alizabeth now advances to the Washington state Youth of the Year competition (being held virtually March 26 at 4pm) 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.
Alizabeth, a senior at Rochester High School and Running Start student at Centralia College, gave an emotional and inspiring speech about the impact her Club experience had on her life especially during challenges related to her physical health and changes experienced within her family. Alizabeth has been a Club member since third grade and credits support from Club mentors as a powerful impact of her Club experience. She is the ASB student body president at Rochester High School and has been involved in cheer, band, and color guard. She has participated in numerous Club programs, most recently serving as a Jr. Staff member helping assist and mentor younger members. Her plans are to attend Eastern Washington University as a Child Studies major. Whenever possible, she will continue to serve as an ambassador for BGCTC.
“All of our Youth of the Year nominees are evidence that we have much to be hopeful for – even during the tough moments the pandemic brought us. These young people remind us that adversity can be overcome and that the Club can be a powerful asset in helping them navigate whatever challenges they face,” says Chris Woods, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Thurston County. “We look forward to seeing all the great things Alizabeth will accomplish through the Youth of the Year state competition and beyond.”
Financial support for the Youth of the Year program ensures a rich experience for youth in our community. BGCTC is grateful to the many community partners and sponsors who make the Youth of the Year program a reality for the teens we serve.
