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Ready, Set, Lace Up for GREAT Futures with Team Club Kid During the 2025 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend 

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Are you ready to go the extra mile for a magical cause? 

We’re thrilled to announce that Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida is a participating charity in the 2025 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend at Walt Disney World® Resort, happening Thursday, October 23 – Sunday, October 26, 2025. 

This year’s theme, Disney Magical Mealtimes, serves up a delicious celebration of all things tasty. Whether you’re ready to run a 5K, 10K, half marathon — or take on the Disney Two Course Challenge (10K + half marathon) — you’ll enjoy miles of mouthwatering merriment and earn uniquely themed medals for every race you complete. As runDisney® always promises: Every Mile is Magic. 

🎉 Why Join Team Club Kid? 

  • Registration through Walt Disney World® is SOLD OUT — but you can still participate by registering through Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida’s Team Club Kid. 
  • Your miles will directly support the 13,000 children and teens we serve across Central Florida. 
  • Fundraising commitments help ensure the blue doors of our Clubs stay open for the kids who need us most. 

🌟 Ready to Run with Heart? 
Spots are limited, and the fundraising deadline is Monday, October 6, 2025. Whether you’re chasing a new personal record or walking your very first 5K, Team Club Kid welcomes runners of all levels who are passionate about making a difference. 

👉 Register here!
📆 Race Weekend Info. 

✨ Corporate Opportunities 
Want to amplify your company’s impact? Corporate sponsorships are available. Contact Alicia Hodge at (239) 826-9974 or ahodge@bgccf.org for more details. 

 

When you run with Team Club Kid, you’re not just chasing finish lines—you’re helping Central Florida’s youth reach their full potential. 

Run with purpose. Make every mile matter. Sign up today. 

Be Great Gala web blog MAIN

A Record-Breaking Night at our 2025 Be Great Gala

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We’re still beaming from the excitement and generosity that filled the room at this year’s Be Great Gala — and it’s all thanks to the unwavering support of our incredible community. 

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On behalf of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, we extend our heartfelt thanks to every guest, sponsor, volunteer, and advocate who helped make this our most successful Be Great Gala to date, raising over $180,000 in support of our Seminole County Clubs! 

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This record-breaking evening brought together a powerful mix of inspiration, joy, and purpose. Together, we celebrated what it means to believe in a future where every child — regardless of circumstance — has the opportunity to BE GREAT. 


Your Support Is Transforming Lives 

Every dollar raised during the Be Great Gala directly supports the youth and teens we serve in Seminole County. These critical funds allow us to expand access to academic support, leadership development, mentorship, and life-enriching programs for young people who need us most. 

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Because of your generosity, our Clubs continue to provide safe, welcoming spaces where kids can learn, grow, and thrive after school and during the summer months. You are helping shape futures, inspire dreams, and open the blue doors to opportunity. 

A Night to Remember 

The evening was made even more special thanks to powerful voices from our Club members who reminded us exactly why we do this work. From our poised youth emcees Malaya and Giselle, to the moving personal story shared by Club member Malaysia, each moment was a testament to the impact of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida mission. 

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We are also grateful for the guidance of our Gala Committee, led by Chair Christina Redman, whose passion and dedication brought the night to life, and to our partners like Park Jewelers, who added sparkle with their generous raffle donation. 

From inspiring speeches, including moving words from our Seminole County Sheriff, Dennis Lema, to an exciting live auction and the strong turnout from supporters across the county, this year’s Be Great Gala was a true reflection of a community that believes in its children. 

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Looking Ahead 

While the night was one of celebration, it also marked a new chapter of possibility. With the funds raised, we are moving forward — empowered to serve more youth, more often — with the stability, support, and hope they deserve. 

To all who helped make this evening a success, whether through sponsorship, volunteering, donating, or attending we thank you. Your belief in our mission is helping youth in Seminole County dream bigger, reach higher, and achieve more. 

Thank you for standing with us and showing what it truly means to BE GREAT. 

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Shaped by the Club, Driven by Purpose: Meet Youth of the Year Finalist, Ericka 

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At Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, we are in the business of shaping GREAT futures — and Ericka’s story captures that mission beautifully. 

A proud 11th-grade student at Evans High School, Ericka has been a member of our Walt Disney World Clubhouse for 12 years. Over that time, she has grown from a curious young girl into a confident leader, compassionate mentor, and fierce advocate for literacy and youth mental health. Her journey is a testament to the life-changing power of the community, opportunity, and support found through our blue doors, and we couldn’t be prouder to call her one of our 2025 Youth of the Year finalists. 

From her earliest days at the Club, Ericka found more than just after-school activities. She found a second home — a place where her voice mattered, her ideas were nurtured, and her potential was unlimited. Through programs like Smart Girls, Mental Health MythBusters, and the 21st Century Learning Initiative, Ericka discovered her love for advocacy and leadership. Whether welcoming new members, mentoring younger peers, or traveling to Washington, D.C. to speak to lawmakers about youth mental health, she has used every opportunity to serve and uplift others. 

Ericka’s personal story is one of resilience. As the daughter of Caribbean immigrants, she has often had to navigate language and cultural barriers — acting as the bridge between her family and the world around her. Her experiences shaped a deep commitment to literacy, especially for children like her who grow up in homes where English isn’t the primary spoken language. Today, she volunteers in literacy programs at her Club, helping other kids find their confidence and voice — just as she once did. 

Ericka joined her fellow Youth of the Year finalists on stage to emcee our Celebrate the Children Gala, where she demonstrated presence, passion, and leadership far beyond her years. Watching her command the stage and represent her Club with such grace reminded us all of why we do what we do. She is a shining example of the values at the heart of our organization: resilience, empathy, determination, and service. 

Ericka dreams of becoming a marketing manager — a career path that blends her creativity, strategic thinking, and desire to influence positive change. With a strong GPA and an even stronger sense of purpose, she is already well on her way. 

We are proud. We are inspired. And most of all, we are grateful to have been part of Ericka’s journey, to witness her growth, and to support the GREAT future that lies ahead. 

Ericka, thank you for showing us what’s possible when young people are given the tools, encouragement, and community they need to thrive. We can’t wait to see the amazing impact you’ll continue to make on the world.

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A Shining Example: Ci’Miya’s Journey Through the Blue Doors of BGCCF

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From the moment Ci’Miya walked through the blue doors of the Cocoa Branch of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, she began a journey marked by resilience, growth, and purpose. Now a high school senior with aspirations to pursue a career in radiology, Ci’Miya is not only one of our 2025 Youth of the Year finalists, she is a shining example of the values that define our Clubs: leadership, compassion, accountability, and service. 

Ci’Miya’s journey with us began during one of the most difficult times in her life, following the tragic loss of her older brother. In the midst of her grief, it was her younger brother who noticed a new Club opening in their community and encouraged their mom to sign them up. That decision would become a turning point in Ci’Miya’s life. From the very first visit—where she was welcomed by bright colors, creative spaces, and caring staff, Ci’Miya knew the Club was something special. It was a safe haven where she could begin to heal, explore, grow, and thrive. 

Early on, Ci’Miya struggled with confidence in school and social settings. After being held back in fourth grade, she faced bullying and self-doubt. But it was through the support and guidance of Club mentors like Ms. RaQuel and Mr. Anwar that Ci’Miya began to rediscover her voice. They reminded her that her success was within her control — and their belief in her led her to believe in herself. Slowly but surely, she reclaimed her self-worth and began building the foundation of the confident, articulate young leader we know today.  

As she entered her teen years, Ci’Miya found a new outlet for growth through our Keystone program. There, she flourished as a student leader — serving as Vice President, Treasurer, and now President of her Club’s Keystone chapter. Through community service projects like “Kids Night Out” and book donations to young parents, she demonstrated what it means to lead with empathy and purpose. Her advocacy work and creativity have empowered her to speak up for others, mentor her peers, and effect meaningful change. 

This year, Ci’Miya’s journey came full circle when she joined her fellow Youth of the Year finalists to emcee our annual Celebrate the Children gala. Standing on stage, poised and passionate, she represented not only her Club but the spirit of perseverance and excellence that defines each of the over 12,000 youth and teens we serve across Central Florida. 

In her own words, “Without the Club, where would I be?” For Ci’Miya, the Club is more than an afterschool program — it’s home. A place where she learned to navigate grief, build lifelong friendships, find her voice, and unlock her potential. It’s where she learned that helping others is not just a value, but a way of life. 

Ci’Miya’s story is just one example of the many young lives transformed by walking through our blue doors. Her journey stands as a powerful testament to the impact of academic support, enriching opportunities, and the guidance of positive adult role models found at our Clubs. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and honored to be part of her journey. Her future is filled with promise, and we have no doubt that she will continue to impact the world around her — just as she has impacted all of us. 

Congratulations, Ci’Miya. We are cheering you on every step of the way.

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A Voice for the Future: Celebrating Ale’jah, 2025 Youth of the Year Finalist 

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At Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, we believe in the potential of every child who walks through our blue doors. Ale’jah, a high school senior from our Leesburg Branch and one of our 2025 Youth of the Year finalists, is living proof of what’s possible when young people are empowered through academic support, extracurricular opportunities, and the life-changing guidance of a nurturing community. Read her story to see how the Club has helped shape her into the remarkable leader she is today. 

Since joining the Club at age six, Ale’jah has been on a remarkable journey of self-discovery and growth. What began as an effort to find belonging after experiencing severe bullying at school quickly became a transformational experience. Through programs like Smart Girls and Money Matters, Ale’jah found not only her voice but also her confidence, leadership skills, and her vision for a GREAT future. 

Ale’jah’s passion for advocacy and healthcare runs deep. An aspiring OB/GYN, she is deeply committed to improving maternal health outcomes for African American women and fighting for medical equity. From job-shadowing physicians at the FSU College of Medicine Summer Institute to conducting an AP Research project on African American maternal care, her academic and extracurricular efforts speak volumes about her drive to create lasting, positive change in our community and in the world. 

But what makes Ale’jah truly special is her ability to turn adversity into empowerment. Her early struggles with bullying didn’t break her — they built her. With guidance from caring mentors like Club Director Mrs. Tonya Porter-Connelly and staff members Ms. Rosalyn Castile and Mrs. Christine Brooks, Ale’jah developed the confidence to speak at major events like the Black & White Ball, the Blue Door Ball, and our Celebrate the Children gala, where she joined fellow Youth of the Year finalists as a poised and inspiring emcee. 

Ale’jah is not just a future medical professional — she is a leader, a visionary, and a driving force behind meaningful conversations and progress. Her leadership roles in organizations like HOSA and FBLA have allowed her to serve others while developing her own unique voice and vision. Ale’jah believes in adapting programs to meet the diverse needs of young people across the country, an approach that reflects the very heart of our mission. 

We are endlessly proud of Ale’jah’s accomplishments and inspired by her commitment to service, advocacy, and excellence. She embodies the core values of our organization: leadership, character, and a relentless pursuit of a GREAT future — for herself and for others. 

Ale’jah, thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey. We are honored to support you, cheer for you, and watch as you rise to incredible heights. Your story is just beginning, and we cannot wait to see the lives you will touch and the change you will create. 

Keep shining.

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Celebrate the Children – Club Oz: A Night of Heart, Courage, and Brighter Futures  

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There’s no place like Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida… and there was certainly no night like this one.

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On a dazzling evening filled with sparkle, spirit, and soul, Celebrate the Children – Club Oz, presented by Disney, transported more than 900 guests over the rainbow and into a world where every moment made magic — and every dollar raised changed lives. 

 

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our Ozians, we didn’t just follow the yellow brick road — we paved it. Together, we made history, surpassing $1 million for the first time ever in the gala’s history. This milestone will directly impact the more than 12,000 youth and teens we serve across our Clubs throughout Central Florida, offering them a safe, nurturing place to grow, dream, and thrive. 

Youth at the Heart of the Journey 

At the core of the evening was our mission — and the youth who inspire it. 

Raymond, our 2025 Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation Youth of the Year, took the stage as keynote speaker and brought the entire room to its feet. There wasn’t a dry eye in Oz. In a moving speech, Raymond shared how his journey — from childhood homelessness to hardship and resilience — was transformed by the unwavering support of his Club, his mother, and his love for science. Today, Raymond is headed to Duke University on a full scholarship to study physics, and left us with these powerful words: 

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“As difficult as my journey was, I recognize I needed to go through hardship to become who I am today… Because of the strength of my mother, the unwavering support of my Club and the love I found for science, I not only survived, but I thrived.” 

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Before Raymond took the stage, Disney Ambassador Shannon Smith-Conrad surprised Raymond on stage with a $10,000 scholarship. Thank you to our title sponsor, Disney, for making this magical moment possible! 

Throughout the night, we heard from our Youth of the Year Finalists, Ale’jah, Ci’Miya, Ericka, Leondrae, Nikol, who wowed the crowd with their charm and character.  

The Magic of Performance 

Throughout the night, our incredibly talented Club youth and teens lit up the ballroom with performances that stole the show: 

  • Antaria opened the evening with a powerful rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” 
  • The Follow the Yellow Brick Road Steppers energized the room with sequins, rhythm, and spirit. 
  • Our Youth Arts Initiative (YAI) dancers performed a thrilling Club Oz Medley that had guests on the edge of their seats, and closed the night with a joyful performance of “Ease on Down the Road.” 
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From the first note to the final bow, our Club performers were the golden thread that wove the Club Oz journey into one unforgettable narrative — showcasing the talent, confidence, and creativity that thrive within our Clubs through every song, step, and movement. 

Honoring a Legacy 

A powerful moment of the evening came as Janice Abrew-Coriano of Rosen Hotels accepted the Key to Club Oz in honor of the late Mr. Harris Rosen — a Hall of Fame Boys & Girls Clubs alumnus and steadfast advocate for youth. 

 

Mr. Rosen often credited the guidance he received at the 10th Street Boys Club in New York’s Hell’s Kitchen for changing the trajectory of his life. He paid that forward in every way imaginable, dedicating his life to lifting up Central Florida’s youth and inspiring generations to dream bigger. His legacy lives on in the futures he helped shape. 

A Night of Generosity and Joy 

The live auction brought energy, excitement, and a whole lot of heart: 

  • Chris Marchand, our Great and Powerful Auctioneer of Oz, was joined by Randy June and his daughter, who generously donated an exclusive trip to their Bahamian home — private jet included. 
  • Our 2025 Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation Youth of the Year, Raymond, returned to the stage for a thrilling paddle drop, where one lucky guest walked away with a luxurious getaway to Rosen Shingle Creek. 

Every bid helped build the foundation for a brighter tomorrow. Congratulations to all the lucky winners! 

 

Thank You for Believing in Our Mission 

From start to finish, Celebrate the Children was a night we’ll never forget – because it was about so much more than the glamour and glitter of the Emerald City. It was about impact. It was about showing up. It was about believing that every child, no matter their circumstances, deserves a chance to reach their full potential.

To our guests, sponsors, performers, volunteers, and especially our fearless event chair Kelli Addison — thank you for walking the Yellow Brick Road with us. Your heart, your courage, and your unwavering belief in our mission made this night unforgettable. 

As we return from the Emerald City, may we carry with us the joy and purpose of the journey — and remember: 

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Joe R Lee Branch in Eatonville Celebrates New Kid-Designed Playground Thanks to Partnership with DaVita and KABOOM! 

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A Playground with Purpose 

On Tuesday, April 15, 2025, the energy at our Joe R Lee Branch in Eatonville was electric as volunteers, community leaders, and youth came together to unveil something truly special—a brand-new, kid-designed and community-built playground, made possible by the passionate efforts of our partners at DaVita and KABOOM!.

From the earliest drawings in December to the final bolt turned, this project has been a labor of love, led by the children who inspired its design and powered by the hundreds of volunteers who brought it to life. 

Over 200 volunteers  —150 of them DaVita teammates from around the country — arrived early in the morning, fueled by a shared belief that every child deserves a joyful place to play. By 2:00 p.m., their collective efforts had transformed an empty lot into a vibrant playspace built with purpose, pride, and partnership. 

The empty lot behind Joe R Lee Branch before over 200 volunteers worked tirelessly to build a playground for Club members.
The empty lot behind Joe R Lee Branch before over 200 volunteers worked tirelessly to build a playground for Club members.

“You came together from everywhere. That is the the most marvelous piece of this project,” shared Eatonville Mayor Angie Gardner. “On behalf of this town, these children, and their familie, I want to thank you for finding that this was worthy enough for you to give your time that you didn’t have to give to come out and support Boys & Girls Clubs [of Central Florida] to get this done in such an amazing period of time.” 

Volunteers mix concrete together.
Volunteers mix concrete together.

A Playground with Purpose 

This playground is more than just swings and slides. It’s a symbol of what’s possible when communities unite to prioritize play equity—the belief that every child, regardless of background, should have access to safe, engaging places to play. 

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Research shows that play is essential to a child’s social, emotional, and academic development. Yet far too many children lack access to these basic opportunities. This partnership between BGCCF, DaVita, and KABOOM! is part of a movement to close that gap. 

The Joe R. Lee Branch plays a critical role in the lives of nearly 400 children annually. Now, thanks to this initiative, those children have a state-of-the-art playspace where they can dream bigger, grow stronger, and thrive together. 

Building Toward a Brighter Future 

This project is part of KABOOM!’s 25 in 5 Initiative to End Playspace Inequity, and it also marked the launch of DaVita’s new ‘Recess’ program—both aiming to create systemic change by investing in local communities and kids’ well-being. The build also coincided with DaVita’s 25th anniversary, making the event all the more meaningful. 

Jamie Merrill, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, with Joe R Lee Branch Club members.
Jamie Merrill, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, with Joe R Lee Branch Club members.

As kids ran onto the new playground for the first time, faces lit up with joy and amazement. I was clear: this space is theirs. Designed by them, built for them, and rooted in a community that believes in their future. 

At Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, we believe that Great Futures Start Here. And now, for the kids we serve in Eatonville, they start on a brand-new playground that stands as a testament to collaboration, compassion, and the power of play. 

Angie Gardner, Mayor of Eatonville, thanking the volunteers for their time.
Angie Gardner, Mayor of Eatonville, thanking the volunteers for their time.
Joe R Lee Club members enjoy a celebration with the volunteers - complete with balloon animals!
Joe R Lee Club members enjoy a celebration with the volunteers – complete with balloon animals!
Jessa Heisey, Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships and Shadrick “Shaggy” Alexander, Joe R Lee Service Director
Jessa Heisey, Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships and Shadrick “Shaggy” Alexander, Joe R Lee Service Director
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Annabel Changemaker wo text

Celebrating a Young Leader with a Great Future: Annabel Honored as Heart of Florida United Way Change Maker Junior 

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We are incredibly proud to share the exciting news that Annabel, a dedicated member of our Walt Disney World Clubhouse in Pine Hills, has been recognized as this year’s Heart of Florida United Way Change Maker Junior! Annabel’s achievement is a testament to her passion, hard work, and unwavering commitment to bettering our community. 

A Beacon of Hope and Inspiration 

Annabel’s journey as a young leader is nothing short of inspiring. Wise beyond her years, she dedicates her time and energy to causes that truly matter. Her advocacy for mental health awareness and her tireless efforts to combat food insecurity are making a tangible impact in the lives of those around her. 

Her passion for creating positive change radiates through every project she takes on. Whether she’s organizing events, volunteering her time, or educating her peers, Annabel’s influence is felt far and wide. She embodies our core values at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida and sets an example that all can admire and emulate. 

A proud Jamie Merrill, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida with our Change Maker, Annabell
A proud Jamie Merrill, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida with our Change Maker, Annabell

About the Change Maker Impact Awards 

The Change Maker Junior award is part of the Annual Change Maker Impact Awards presented by Heart of Florida United Way. These awards honor individuals and organizations that make a significant and lasting impact in Central Florida. The Change Maker Junior category celebrates the youngest leaders — those under 21 — who are using their creativity, determination, and passion to drive meaningful change in their communities. 

Heart of Florida United Way works to build a brighter future for every person in Central Florida through collaboration with nonprofits, public agencies, and private businesses. This event is a beautiful reminder of the power of community and the incredible impact of those who ‘Live United.’ 

Looking to the Future 

We are beyond grateful to have Annabel as part of our Club community, and we know this is just the beginning of her journey with a Great Future ahead! Her light is one that will continue to shine brightly, and we can’t wait to see all the incredible things she will accomplish in the future. 

Congratulations once again to Annabel and all of this year’s winners. It was truly inspiring to be surrounded by so many Change Makers, each contributing to a stronger, more vibrant Central Florida. 

Youth of the Year

Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation Youth of the Year 2025: Celebrating Our Winner Raymond and Other Finalists

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The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida is proud to celebrate The Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation 2025 Youth of the Year, Raymond, a remarkable young leader from the Levy-Hughes Clubhouse. This prestigious honor recognizes outstanding Club members who exemplify leadership, resilience, and a commitment to academic excellence and community service. 

A Night of Inspiration and Celebration 

The Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation 2025 Youth of the Year event was nothing short of inspiring. Each finalist shared powerful stories of perseverance, passion, and ambition, embodying the core mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida. This vitally important program empowers our teens, and we’re honored to share its impact with you this year. 

A HUGE thank you to Kiwanis Club of Orlando for their long-time sponsorship of our Youth of the Year program. Youth of the Year is Boys & Girls Clubs’ premier teen recognition program, fostering a new generation of leaders each year. Each Club nominates a high school member annually to compete to represent the organization. Without a doubt, it’s one of our favorite programs of the year. 

This year’s distinguished judges, including representatives from AdventHealth, Disney, Florida Blue, CareerSource, and Heart of Florida United Way, had the challenging task of selecting a winner from an exceptional group of students. While each finalist had an extraordinary journey and showed infinite potential, Raymond’s compelling story, confidence, and passion set him apart. 

Raymond Rosa: A Future in Theoretical Physics 

A senior at Jones High School, Raymond maintains a 3.9 GPA, ranking third in his class as an International Baccalaureate Diploma Candidate. Having secured acceptance to Duke University, he aspires to focus on theoretical physics and dark matter research. 

Raymond’s journey has been marked by resilience. Surviving a devastating apartment fire that left his family homeless, he learned firsthand the power of perseverance. His Boys & Girls Club, particularly under the mentorship of Ms. Tasha, provided him with guidance, opportunities, and a support system that fueled his drive for academic excellence and community involvement. Whether participating in food drives, engaging with the Orlando Math Circle, or mentoring peers, Raymond’s dedication to making a difference is evident. 

His fascination with physics began after watching Interstellar, leading him to explore Kip Thorne’s The Science of Interstellar. Today, he is determined to inspire curiosity in others and leave a lasting impact on the world through scientific discovery. 

Honoring Our Finalists 

In addition to Raymond, we recognize and celebrate the achievements of all of our outstanding finalists: 

  • Nikol (11th Grade, Tupperware Brands Branch) – Aspiring traveling nurse, passionate about mental health awareness and peer support. 
  • Ericka (11th Grade, Walt Disney Clubhouse) – Future marketing manager, dedicated to youth empowerment and literacy advocacy. 
  • Ci’Miya (12th Grade, Cocoa Branch) – Future radiologist and community advocate 
  • Leondrae (12th Grade, Joe R. Lee Branch) – Creative leader and future graphic designer and model 
  • Ale’jah (12th Grade, Leesburg Branch) – Aspiring OB/GYN physician, committed to maternal health advocacy and medical equity. 

Each of these young leaders represents the spirit of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida — they are resilient, ambitious, and dedicated to positive change. 

Words from Our Judges 

The judges were deeply moved by the passion and determination of all of this year’s candidates. Here are a few testimonials about Raymond in particiular:  

  • Nisha Brice, Florida Blue: “Raymond’s overall submission was strong. His confidence and ability to share his story of adversity, curiosity, and perseverance truly gave him the edge.” 
  • Victoria Butler, AdventHealth: “His speech told a story about encouragement, perseverance, and his ‘why.’ We are excited to see what he will accomplish.” 
  • Christina Ferraro, Disney: “Raymond is a born storyteller. His experience of homelessness and resilience was inspiring.” 
  • Tadar Muhammad, CareerSource: “Raymond’s authenticity, humor, and gratitude made him stand out. His dedication to community and strong work ethic make him an excellent representative of Boys & Girls Clubs.” 

Looking Ahead 

Since 1947, The Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation Youth of the Year program has been a beacon of hope, celebrating young individuals who demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and a commitment to service. As we look to the future, we are excited to see what incredible things Raymond and all our finalists will achieve. 

Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida remains committed to empowering youth, and events like these remind us of the profound impact mentorship, education, and community support can have on shaping the leaders of tomorrow. 

Congratulations to Raymond and all our outstanding finalists. The future is bright, and we cannot wait to see how you will change the world! 

2025 Board Chair

BGCCF Welcomes Sean Connolly as New Board Chair

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The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida (BGCCF) Board of Directors is excited to announce the appointment of Sean Connolly as its new Board Chair. 

Sean Connolly brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as Managing Director with Merrill Lynch from 2003 to 2023 and currently serving as Managing Director at Rockefeller Capital Management. 

Jamie Merrill, BGCCF President and CEO, expressed enthusiasm about the appointment: “We are incredibly grateful that Sean will be stepping into the role of board chair. Sean brings a wealth of business knowledge and a true passion for serving youth and teens. I look forward to working alongside him to extend our impact on families across Central Florida.”  

Connolly’s extensive background in financial services, combined with his commitment to community service, positions him well to lead the board in its mission to support and empower local families. 
 
“As the new Chairman of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, I am deeply honored to follow in the footsteps of the remarkable leaders who have come before me,” said Connolly. “Their dedication and vision have paved the way for countless young lives to be transformed. I am committed to continuing this legacy, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to realize their full potential and achieve great futures.”  

BGCCF looks forward to leveraging Connolly’s expertise and leadership as it continues to grow and serve the Central Florida community.  

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