Stepping up: Boys and Girls Club nominees are reason to be proud

Obstacles do not always create stopping points in a young person’s life. In fact, for some they create opportunity to shine even brighter.

For the competitors in the state’s annual Youth of the Year competition for the Boys and Girls Clubs of North Carolina, their stories were diverse — as were their struggles.

But in the end, each reached deep inside him or herself to draw strength and to succeed in school and in life, while still having an impact on their communities.

Just hearing their stories would make you proud.

Among the finalists this year was Southern Wayne’s own Saderio Simmons. A leader in her school, she has done much to make her club and her family proud.

She did not take home the top prize — although she was a very worthy contender — but she is an example of the best of Wayne County. And her county should be proud of the what she has accomplished. There is no doubt, we will hear her name again someday.

Also honored at the county level with her was Jasmine McLamb, from the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base unit. She should also be proud of earning her county’s recognition for what she has achieved.

There are hundreds of children in North Carolina who have changed their lives because of their time in Boys and Girls Clubs. Many of them are now giving back to others and have inspired younger children with their examples.

There are many adults who ask what they can do to help young people in their community. Boys and Girls Clubs are great places to start.

These fine young men and women are proof positive that a little support and confidence as well as some help from a mentor or two makes a difference.

Published in Editorials on March 31, 2007 12:49 PM