Joshua B. of Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay has been awarded the “Southeast Military Youth of the Year” title by Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
He was chosen from nine Southeast Military Youth of the Year finalists and received a $20,000 college scholarship in recognition of his achievements.
Joshua B. has been an active member of Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay Youth Center for four years,
completing 120 hours of volunteer service.
After his family transitioned from Virginia to Georgia, Joshua faced obstacles in wanting to feel a sense of community in his new home. However, Joshua credits his active participation in the Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay Teen Center helped him become more confident and feel a sense of belonging he has always wanted.
“I believe that every experience that I have had at the Teen Center has prepared me for success in life and to be a person that wants to encourage others to succeed as well,” states Joshua.
Joshua B. comes from a family with a strong military background, and he has found a deep sense of
belonging and community at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay Youth Center. This supportive community
has allowed him to connect with new friends and fellow service members, providing him with valuable
opportunities for personal growth and development. Joshua has been an enthusiastic participant in
various volunteer activities and has demonstrated his leadership abilities by serving as a BGCA Military
Teen Ambassador and a BGCA National Road Code Ambassador.
Toyota and Kohl’s are the Signature Sponsors of Youth of the Year sharing a dedication to empowering
America’s youth to reach their full potential. Toyota is committed to partnering with Boys & Girls Club of
America to ensure local Clubs provide life-enhancing opportunities for kids and teens to explore,
develop and apply the essential skills they need to be successful in life and work; Kohl’s is committed to
partnering with Boys & Girls Club of America to ensure Clubs provide staff training and curriculum
updates focused on trauma-informed care and building healthy well-being skills kids and teens need to
create great futures.
In August, Joshua will head to Washington, D.C., to vie for the National Military Youth of the Year title – becoming Boys & Girls Clubs’ national representative of military teen voices. If selected, he then will travel to Atlanta to contend for the National Youth of the Year title. The National Youth of the Year receives an additional $50,000 scholarship and the opportunity to serve as a spokesperson for Boys & Girls Clubs of America representing over 3.3 million Club kids and teens.
