On March 25, 2021 in a hybrid event, the Boys & Girls Club of Ridgefield broadcast the 2021 BGCR Youth Leadership Celebration. It was a night to celebrate the Club and the kids that make it the special place that it is.

The 16 Youth of the Year candidates, along with the Keystone Award winners and the leadership team, gathered at the Club for an in-person celebration – which was streamed LIVE for the BGCR Community to view at home. I’m continually impressed and proud to be a sponsor and executive board member of this very special organization.

The 2021 Youth of the Year winner was Eli Keeler! Eli has been coming to the Club since he started second grade – and the first staff member he met was Triston “Big Paw” Philip. They have been attached at the hip since; so much so, that Eli has earned the nickname “Little Paw!” Just like Triston, Eli has done so much for the Club, participating in all of our programs and always volunteering at every Club event. He is an amazing role model and a leader amongst his peers.

Also, for the first time in BGCR history, the Club announced the winner of the 2021 Junior Youth of the Year, Sydney Rossi! Sydney has been coming to the Club for the past 5 years, and truly has emerged as a leader at the Barn Teen Center and in Keystone Club. She was an active participant in the Club’s Teen Take The Lead program last summer. She says “The Boys & Girls Club has helped me become a better person, through gaining friendships, confidence, and leadership skills.”

Congratulations to all Youth of the Year and Junior Youth of the Year candidates – we are so proud of you all.

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