Seven youngsters from the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley were recognized March 18 at an annual ceremony at the Newhall Clubhouse.
“This event serves to honor some of our most fantastic youth from 2010,” Matt Nelson, branch manager for the Newhall site, said.
The Boys & Girls Club also recognized Oscar Dominguez of Union Bank for a $500 donation that covered all the event’s expenses. Dominguez, who is a member of the Club’s foundation board, said, “Union Bank is proud to sponsor these types of events and to be part of a strong program.”
The Club’s Sierra Vista branch recognized three members.
Allyson Conant, nine-years, beamed as she received her Excellence in Education plaque. She enjoys the cooking club and Power Hour, and is known for quickly finishing her homework and then asking to be the helper. Conant would like to become a doctor, vet or teacher.
William Hanshaw, 16-years, earned the Excellence in Technology award and is active in Leaders in Training (LIT). He would like to become a bioengineer.
The Youth of the Year from the Sierra Vista branch was Daniel Leija. Active in LIT, Keystone Club, and sports, Leija wants to become a business owner.
The Newhall branch presented four awards. Carlos Vasquez, 13-years, earned Excellence in Arts. He has been involved in LIT and digital arts. Vasquez is also a self-taught piano player and music composer.
Cynthia Samano earned Excellence in Education. She is involved in Power Hour, sports, claymation, arts program, and robotics.
Nicholas Lopez, 13-years, scored the Excellence in Technology award. He enjoys the Torch Club and video game design. Darren Young, education coordinator, described the youngster as “truly a technological genius.”
The valley-wide Youth of the Year award went to Michael Guerrero, 16-years. He has been involved in Passport to Manhood, LIT, hiking, camping, and Power Hour. His future career will involve helping others.
“If I could make someone feel better on a bad day, that would be great,” said Guerrero, who gave a brief speech about the Club, his goals, morals, and education.
Jim Ventress, chief professional officer for the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley, congratulated the honorees and acknowledged the “terrific staff members” for their contributions to the youth.
The Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley serves more than 2,300 youth, ages seven to 17, at facilities in Newhall and Canyon Country.