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June 21 2025

The Doors of Opportunity Open in Tangelo Park

This summer, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida proudly opened the doors to its 39th Club location, right in the heart of Tangelo Park. Generously hosted by Tangelo Baptist Church, and made possible through the support of the Universal Orlando Foundation and the advocacy of Commissioner Mike Scott, this new Branch reflects a shared commitment to youth, families, and community in one of Orlando’s most historic neighborhoods.

For many families in Tangelo Park, reliable and enriching summer opportunities for children have been limited. This new Club directly addresses that need — offering a safe, welcoming environment for up to 50 youth each day. Club members, ages 6–18, can engage in hands-on learning, build meaningful relationships, and explore their full potential.

More Than Just a Summer Program

At the Tangelo Park Branch, Club members participate in a wide range of high-impact programs — from academic support and leadership development to creative enrichment activities that make learning fun and personal growth tangible. With the school year behind them, youth find a new rhythm of curiosity, connection, and confidence every weekday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Recognizing that wellbeing goes beyond the classroom, the Club also provides free breakfast and lunch for every Club member. For many families, this helps bridge the gap of food insecurity during the summer, when school-based meal programs are unavailable. A full belly means more than a happy child — it means a child who is better equipped to focus, learn, and thrive.

A Community-Driven Collaboration

The Tangelo Park Branch is the result of long-standing partnerships and local advocacy rooted in the community.

Commissioner Mike Scott, a proud Boys & Girls Clubs alumnus who grew up in Orlando, has long championed youth development in the Tangelo Park neighborhood. His leadership helped lay the foundation for this Club, ensuring it remains deeply connected to the community it serves.

The Universal Orlando Foundation also played a vital role — not only through their generous sponsorship of the new Branch, but through a 25-year partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida. Their continued investment includes support of the Universal Orlando Foundation Branch in Carver Shores.

“Caring for our communities is at the heart of what we do,” shared Diane O’Dell, Vice President of Community Relations at Universal Destinations & Experiences and Executive Director of the Universal Orlando Foundation. “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with BGCCF and help expand access to meaningful programming for the children who live right here in our backyard.”

Looking Ahead

With the launch of the Tangelo Park Branch, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida continues its mission to build great futures — one child, one family, and one neighborhood at a time. We are honored to walk alongside the families of Tangelo Park and are excited about the positive impact this Club will have on local youth and the broader community.

Because when a child has a place to feel safe, be seen, and be supported, the ripple effect of their potential can reach far beyond what we can imagine.

June 20 2025

From Club Kid to Duke University: Meet our 2025 Youth of the Year, Raymond

Bgccf Club Member Story, Testimonials youth of the year 0

Meet Raymond, the 2025 Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation Youth of the Year for Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida. A recent graduate of Jones High School and now a freshman at Duke University on a full scholarship, Raymond’s path has been anything but ordinary. His story is one of resilience, brilliance, and the life-changing power of community support.

Overcoming Adversity: A Journey Fueled by Hope

Raymond’s early life was marked by instability. At just six years old, he and his mother found themselves living at the Coalition for the Homeless. It was there that Raymond first walked through the blue doors of the Levy-Hughes Boys & Girls Club — an experience that would ultimately change the course of his life.

“I had no idea this building would become a place of limitless possibilities and would ultimately change the trajectory of my entire life,” Raymond shared in his keynote address at our 2025 Celebrate the Children Gala. “It became the home I didn’t have.”

That Club became a safe haven — not only offering hot meals and winter clothes but also a sense of belonging, mentorship, and purpose. From learning how to tie a tie to his first science project, Raymond discovered a world where curiosity and ambition were not only welcomed but nurtured.

A Passion for Science and Service

Inspired by the movie Interstellar and Kip Thorne’s The Science of Interstellar, Raymond developed a fascination with the cosmos. That spark of curiosity led him to independent studies in quantum mechanics, evolution, and theoretical physics. He would go on to become an International Baccalaureate Diploma Candidate, graduate with a 3.9 GPA, and rank third in his class at Jones High School.

“I became a dedicated student and found solace in the idea that, in a life full of chaos, the universe followed order, and that fascinated me,” Raymond said.

Now at Duke University, Raymond is pursuing his dream of researching dark matter and theoretical physics. But he’s not stopping there. His ultimate goal? To use his education to give back to the communities that believed in him.

A Voice for Youth: Leadership and Advocacy

As the 2025 Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation Youth of the Year, Raymond represented Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida at the Florida Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs’ Annual Days of Advocacy. In Tallahassee, he met with Florida legislators, sharing how Club experiences shaped his path and future goals. He also earned a spot as one of the top four finalists in the statewide Youth of the Year competition, making his community proud.

Raymond’s poise, purpose, and passion for service made a lasting impression on leaders across the state. Whether advocating for youth development or speaking about his love of science and education, he exemplified the qualities of a true ambassador for Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida.

Excellence at Every Level: Central Florida Judges Weigh In

Earlier this year, Raymond was named the 2025 Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation Youth of the Year for Central Florida. Judges from respected organizations across Central Florida were moved by his compelling story, confidence, and drive:

“Raymond’s overall submission was strong, and he had confidence in himself that truly gave him the edge over the others. He was able to share his story of adversity, curiosity, and perseverance—and how the Club helped him along his journey.”
— Nisha Brice, Florida Blue

“Raymond stood out because of his charisma and eloquence. His speech told a story about the encouragement he had received at Boys & Girls Club — and his ‘why.’”
— Victoria Butler, AdventHealth

“Raymond’s interview was exceptional. He is a born storyteller. He captivated us with his harrowing experience of homelessness after a fire destroyed his home. His strong sense of self is inspiring.”
— Christina Ferraro, Disney

“What I enjoyed most about Raymond was his authentic and magnetic personality. His ability to mix humor with gratitude, along with his clear commitment to his community, made him a standout.”
— Tadar Muhammad, CareerSource Central Florida

These affirmations reflect what so many at Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida already knew — Raymond is a rare leader with the intellect, compassion, and authenticity to inspire real change.

A Defining Moment: Celebrate the Children Gala

Raymond’s keynote speech at the 2025 Celebrate the Children Gala left few dry eyes in the room. As he shared his story of overcoming homelessness and loss — most heartbreakingly, the destruction of his home in a fire just seven months after finally gaining stability — his gratitude for the Club shined through.

In a surprise moment that brought the crowd to their feet, Shannon Smith-Conrad, a Walt Disney World Ambassador, presented Raymond with an additional $10,000 scholarship, courtesy of the Boys & Girls Club family.

“Turns out, the little things turned out to be not so little after all,” Raymond told the crowd. “Because of the strength of my mother, the unwavering support of my Club, and the love I found for science, I not only survived — I thrived.”

Why Raymond’s Story Matters

At Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, we believe every child deserves a safe place to grow, explore, and lead. Raymond’s story is a powerful example of what’s possible when young people are surrounded by mentorship, resources, and unwavering belief in their potential.

The mission of our organization is to inspire and enable all young people — especially those who need us most — to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible adults. Raymond embodies this mission. He is not just a scholar or a speaker; he is a changemaker and a beacon of what the next generation can accomplish when given the chance.

Looking Ahead

Raymond is now writing the next chapter of his story at Duke University, pursuing physics and possibly mathematics. He plans to pay it forward — investing in youth, uplifting his community, and continuing to inspire with his curiosity and purpose-driven mindset.

“Our time on this earth is limited,” Raymond says. “And I intend to leave it better than I found it.”

We couldn’t be more proud of Raymond, and we can’t wait to see the difference he’ll make in the world.

June 20 2025

Creating Change Through Compassion: Meet 2025 Youth of the Year Finalist, Nikol

Bgccf Club Member Story, Testimonials youth of the year 0

At Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to lead, grow, and be heard. One shining example of that belief in action is Nikol, a dedicated Club member at our Tupperware Brands Branch, who has been named a 2025 Youth of the Year Finalist.

For over a decade, Nikol has called the Club her second home. Through her unwavering commitment to service, leadership, and advocacy, she has become a trusted role model for her peers and a powerful voice for teens across Central Florida.

A Champion for Teen Mental Health and Belonging

Nikol’s passion lies in creating safe spaces for youth to express themselves and feel heard — especially those who are struggling silently. As a finalist for Youth of the Year, she’s using her platform to bring attention to teen mental health, identity, and the importance of accessible support systems. Whether she’s checking in on a quiet Club member, starting peer support conversations at school, or organizing open discussions about emotional well-being, Nikol leads with empathy and purpose.

She believes that no one should have to face challenges alone. “Sometimes, all it takes is one person who truly listens,” she says. Her vision includes building stronger support networks through mentoring, workshops, and teen-led initiatives that promote mental health awareness and emotional expression.

Leading with Creativity, Confidence, and Heart

As Vice President of her Keystone Club, Nikol has brought her peers together through service projects, recruitment drives, and impactful fundraising events. She’s not just an organizer, she’s a motivator. Her creativity, adaptability, and outgoing spirit allow her to lead in ways that are both innovative and inclusive.

From helping younger Club members with homework to earning her CPR certification and excelling in professional development programs like Workforce Wednesdays, Nikol has embraced every opportunity to grow. She credits the Club with helping her discover new skills, explore future careers, and become more confident in her abilities. “The Club has shaped who I am,” she says. “It’s where I learned to lead with compassion and courage.”

Why Nikol’s Story Matters

Nikol’s journey reflects the very heart of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida’s mission: to inspire and enable all young people — especially those who need us most — to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring adults.

Through her leadership, service, and commitment to lifting others up, Nikol embodies the core values we strive to instill in every Club member: integrity, compassion, inclusion, and perseverance. Her story is not just one of personal growth, but a powerful example of how Clubs help young people find their voice, their confidence, and their purpose.

When we invest in youth like Nikol, we’re investing in the future of our communities. Her success is a reminder that when given the right tools, support, and encouragement, our young people can rise to become the changemakers of tomorrow.

Empowering the Next Generation

Nikol’s success story is a testament to the transformative power of Boys & Girls Clubs. Through her tireless efforts, she’s helping to build a future where all teens feel supported, valued, and inspired to lead.

As a 2025 Youth of the Year finalist, she continues to raise the bar — not only for what it means to be a great student and Club member, but for what it means to be a change-maker in her community.

Congratulations, Nikol. Your voice matters, and the world is listening.

June 20 2025

A Creative Leader Forged by the Club: Meet Youth of the Year Finalist, Leondrae

Bgccf Club Member Story, Testimonials youth of the year 0

At Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, we believe every young person deserves a safe space to grow, dream, and lead. For Leondrae, a recent high school graduate from Eatonville, that space has always been our Joe R. Lee Branch. Now, after more than a decade of mentorship, creativity, and personal growth, Leondrae has been named a 2025 Youth of the Year finalist — a recognition of his remarkable journey from Club kid to community changemaker.

A Lifelong Club Member with a Heart for Service

Leondrae first walked through the blue doors of the Club as a kindergartener. From the very beginning, his potential was unmistakable. By fifth grade, he was already tutoring younger members in reading and writing. He didn’t just participate — he led, mentored, and became a role model for his peers.

“Leondrae always showed the promise and skillset of a leader,” says Reginald Drummond, College and Career Coordinator at the Club. “He is a pillar in the Eatonville community.”

A Creative Leader with a Powerful Voice

Now an alumnus of Orangewood Christian School, Leondrae graduated with a 3.6 GPA, a full roster of AP courses, and multiple leadership roles. As President of the Keystone Club from 2021 to 2023, he organized fundraisers, led Club tours for donors, and served as a three-time keynote speaker at our “Faces of the Future” breakfast event.

His talents extend well beyond academics. A gifted designer and photographer, Leondrae’s work has been featured by Best Buy — including a pop socket design honoring Black women — and he contributed to a cookbook project for Rachael Ray’s culinary foundation. This fall, he’ll take his talents to Florida International University to pursue a degree in graphic design.

“I want to be the safe space for others that the Club was for me,” Leondrae says.

Advocating for Mental Health and Equality

Leondrae’s story is one of resilience and emotional growth. Raised in a turbulent home, he often struggled with his mental health — especially during the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead of withdrawing, he turned to the Club’s community and found strength through support and mentorship.

Inspired by guest speakers like Coach Dr. Godfrey, Leondrae became an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness, encouraging others to seek help and speak openly about their experiences.

“The Club taught me it’s okay to not be okay — and that strength comes from asking for help,” he says.

Today, Leondrae is committed to creating inclusive environments where all voices are heard and valued. Whether he’s mentoring younger Club members or advocating for representation in media and the arts, he’s focused on helping others feel seen.

Why Leondrae’s Story Matters

Leondrae’s journey is a shining example of how youth development programs in Central Florida change lives. Through academic support, creative opportunities, and leadership development, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida empowers youth like Leondrae to overcome obstacles and reach their full potential.

As a 2025 Youth of the Year finalist, Leondrae represents more than personal achievement — he embodies the mission of our Clubs: to inspire and prepare every youth and teen to thrive, lead, and make a difference.

May 29 2025

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.

May 23 2025

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

May 12 2025

Celebrating Leadership: Cheryl Goodison Promoted to Vice President of Grants

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Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida is proud to announce the promotion of Cheryl Goodison to Vice President of Grants — a role that reflects both her exceptional expertise and her deep dedication to helping our mission thrive.

For more than a decade, Cheryl has been an indispensable part of our organization, leading work that strengthens our ability to close opportunity gaps, expand our service, and meet the evolving needs of youth and families across Central Florida. With nearly two decades of nonprofit and resource development experience, she has a proven track record of securing critical funding that fuels transformative impact.

A Leader Shaped by Global Perspective and Community Focus

Cheryl’s journey into nonprofit service spans continents and cultures. She has worked on community-based initiatives in Florida, Oregon, Mexico, and South America — experiences that have shaped her holistic understanding of community needs, cultural awareness, and collaborative problem-solving. Her international work, including nearly six years in Latin America, strengthened her deep commitment to inclusive leadership and her ability to cultivate strong, community-centered partnerships.

Her educational path is equally broad and rooted in curiosity. Cheryl earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Portland State University, following studies in environmental engineering, ecology, sustainable agriculture, and biology. She later pursued postgraduate work in Community Psychology, a discipline centered on advancing well-being and driving social change through solutions that are responsive to diverse community needs.

This rare blend — scientific rigor, community systems thinking, and real-world experience — has strengthened how our organization innovates, grows, and responds to the challenges facing young people in Central Florida today.

Leadership That Elevates Our Mission

As Vice President of Grants, Cheryl will lead a strategy that ensures Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida continues to secure the resources needed to deepen and expand our impact. Her leadership will help us:

Expand access to high-quality programs and safe spaces for more youth and teens across the five counties we serve (Seminole, Lake, Brevard, Orange, and Osceola)

Strengthen partnerships with public, private, and philanthropic organizations

Pursue innovative funding opportunities that support long-term sustainability

Align resources with community needs, ensuring our Clubs remain responsive and resilient

Cheryl’s values — equity, collaboration, curiosity, and a steadfast belief in the potential of every young person — are deeply aligned with our mission. Her ability to see both the big picture and the individual lives impacted by our work makes her exactly the kind of leader who propels our organization forward.

Rooted in Purpose, Driven by Heart

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Cheryl is a proud mother to her teenage son and a constant advocate for creating stronger, healthier communities. Her heart for service shows up in every grant she writes, every partnership she nurtures, and every opportunity she helps unlock for the youth and teens we serve.

Please join us in celebrating Cheryl Goodison as she steps into this critical leadership role. Her vision and dedication will continue to drive GREAT futures forward — today, tomorrow, and for years to come.

May 11 2025

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

Bgccf Club Member Story, Testimonials youth of the year 0

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.

May 11 2025

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

Bgccf Club Member Story, Testimonials youth of the year 0

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.

May 11 2025

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

Bgccf Club Member Story, Testimonials youth of the year 0

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.