Abel Edossa Named 2015 Youth of the Year for Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada
Abel Edossa was named as the 2015 Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada Youth of the Year against five finalists and received a $1,000 scholarship. Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can receive.
Edossa is a senior at Rancho High School, where he is enrolled in the Medical Academy. As a 10-year member of the Boys and Girls Clubs, he has dedicated his time serving the community through BCGSNV’s Keystone Club and working as a tutor for Andson Academics. When not attending the Club, he stays busy with extracurricular activities such National Honor Society, varsity tennis, and speech and debate. A son of Ethiopian parents who fled a civil war for a brighter future, he has faced adversity adjusting to a new culture. Boys and Girls Clubs has helped him grow and become a great role model for today’s youth. He plans on attending UCLA after high school to continue a career in the medical field.
The Youth of the Year Program is designed to promote and recognize teen members service to Boys & Girls Club, community, academic performance and contributions to family and spiritual life. This morning, the five teens gave speeches to tell about their successes as well as their personal challenges and obstacles overcome.
Edossa will next compete against other Boys & Girls Clubs members across Nevada for the state title at the Governor’s Mansion on February 11. This winner will receive an additional $1,000 college scholarship from Tupperware Brands Corporation. State winners move on to vie for the distinction of one of five regional winners across the country, and ultimately those five winners will contend for the title of National Youth of the Year. The National Youth of the Year receives a $15,000 scholarship and is installed by the President of the United States.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada is a nonprofit organization that operates 15 facilities and two summer outreach programs in Southern Nevada, and serves more than 21,000 youth in Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, Henderson, Southern Highlands and Summerlin. These Clubhouses offer children ages K-12th grade a variety of daily creative, fun and educational programs. Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada works to provide every child with equal access, hope and opportunity. Keep up with BGC events and news on Facebook and Twitter. For more information visit www.bgcsnv.org or call 702-367-2582.