To inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.
From the Executive Director,
Thank you so much for joining us tonight for our 15th annual Youth of the Year Event. Whenever I think about the significance of our work at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley, I reflect on moments like this. Youth of the Year is more than an event it’s a celebration of resilience, talent, and potential. Our teens remind us that the Club is not just a place to go after school; it’s a place where lives are transformed.
At the Boys & Girls Club, we believe every child holds a unique gift, a passion waiting to be uncovered. Through exposure to new opportunities in a safe and dynamic environment, we help them not only realize their potential but also cultivate the courage to share it with the world. What you’re witnessing tonight is the culmination of years of intentional investment in these young leaders. We have stood by them, not just during pivotal moments, but through all the in-between spaces that define a childhood. When they were hungry, we provided meals. When they needed academic support, our staff was ready to help. When they sought guidance, they found mentors in the Club. And when they longed for a sense of belonging, we did everything we could to create a home within
our walls.
This evening is a testament to the magic of community a community of staff, volunteers, families, and supporters like you who make it possible for these youth to shine. Their stories are woven with hope, resilience, and joy, and tonight, we proudly share them with you.
Thank you for joining us in celebrating the next generation of leaders. Your presence and support make all the difference in their journeys. Together, we are shaping great futures.
Greg Bouillerce
Greg Bouillerce Executive Director
Each year, thousands of Club teens participate in local, state, and regional Youth of the Year events until the final six teens, including five regional winners and a national military youth winner, are selected to advance to the National Youth of the Year Celebration. Of these six, one outstanding young person is named Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s
The National Youth of the Year is a role model, leader and advocate for over 4.6 million youth served by Boys & Girls Clubs each year, and all of America’s young people. Each nominee has completed three essays on the topics of their Club experience, what matters to them most, and overcoming obstacles. Tonight they will all have the opportunity to share their Club journey but only one will advance to the next stage of
At the Boys & Girls Club, we believe in the importance of recognizing youth for their personal achievements as a vehicle for inspiration, encouragement and success. Becoming Youth of the Year is an exciting and inspiring journey. Each of the candidates you will meet tonight were identified through years of participation both at our Teen Programs and through our elementary school programs. These teens have invested weeks in mentoring, volunteering, and crafting their message with staff and advisors. Of the over 5,000 youth that walk through our doors every year, only a handful are offered the opportunity to participate tonight. These youth are more than they appear; they are represents and strives to achieve.
The overall champion of tonight’s competition will be named our Local Youth of the Year. Every participant tonight will receive a scholarship for $1000, with the over all champion receiving an additional $3,000 in scholarship.
Guest Speaker at 4 BGCNV events with local media coverage in radio and print.
$11,000
Our Local Youth of the Year will move on to compete against candidates from Clubs across central and Northern California for one of three spots to move forward.
Recognition in area competition with local media coverage in radio and print.
$2,000
Finalists from across California will compete for one of three spots to move forward.
State media coverage in radio, print and TV.
Meet & Greet with State Legislators
$4,000
Finalists from across the Pacific Region will compete for one spot to move forward.
Recognition at the regional competition with national media coverage in radio, print and TV. Speaker at the Regional conference.
$5,000
Six Regional Finalists will compete for the title National Youth of the Year.
Meet and Greet with the President.
Guest at the Club’s National Conference National media coverage in radio, print & TV.
$10,000
Tonight’s People
Master of Ceremonies: Josh Sergeson, Teen Services Area Director
Opening Remarks: Dr. Rosanna Mucetti, Superintendent, NVUSD
Youth of the Year Presentation: Greg Bouillerce, Shawna Terry, Dr. Mucetti
Want to say congratulations after the event? All of our Candidates will be headed over to Cole’s for dinner. Join us at Cole’s Chop house! Please Reserve your spot for the After Party here and be sure to type "I'm with the Club" in the special request box to be seated close to our party. Cole’s has even offered to donation a portion of your bill back to the Boys & Girls Club!
Heading to BottleRock Napa Valley and wondering how to keep your kids entertained while you enjoy the festival? Look no further! Camp BottleRock 2025 at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley offers the perfect solution for families attending this iconic Napa event. Designed for school-aged youth, Camp BottleRock provides a fun-filled weekend activities, ensuring every child finds something they’ll love.
Honorable Mentions: Youth of the Year Junior
Every week, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley recognizes members who excel in our core program areas (Character and Leadership, Education and Technology, Health and Life Skills, the Arts, and Sports, Fitness and Recreation). From these children, a Member of the Month is selected. Of these Members of the Month, a Member of the Year is announced representing each of our Clubhouse and School Site locations. Each of these youth have qualities we look for as a potential Youth of the Year, the Clubs’ highest honor, and we’re eager to see what they accomplish.
These are definitely kids you should keep your eye on!
Orlando Solorio
Leilani Corona
Lj Paulino
Makena Ortiz
Fabian Rodriguez
Monserath Guerrero
Fabian Vargas
Genisis Campos
Lj Paulino
Odeth Hurtado
Erick Pineda
Audrey Klieman
Daniel Birkbeck
Adrian Amezcua
Mariana Pereira da Silva
Reese Jones
Tallula Buhman
Luca Oliverio
Bosco Gomez
Killian Riordan
James Wood
Harper Mather
Sydney Goodmanson
Dean Newton
Niko Tapia
William Cabral
Alexia Gonzalez
Alexa Rojas
Lily Munoz
Dasha Ramirez
Albert Pimentel
Pablo Santiago Nelson
Yareth Hinojosa
Aliah Vazquez
Alexis Rojas
Laim Hannah
Are you ready to learn more about the programs offered at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley?! Check out a full list of programs we offer by following the QR Code to the right or just click: !
Sebastian Jimenez
Emma Zamudio
Simone Lacau
Milan Zivkovic
Sebastian Lacau
Aubrey Bautista
David Aragon
Aria Torres
Luke Haffner
Aiden Garcia
Quinn Shaffer
Aiden Aguirre
Orlando Solorio Killian Riordan Aliah Vazquez
Simone Lacau
Napa Clubhouse Browns Valley Site McPherson Site
NVLA Site
Valentia Tueros
Pueblo Vista Site
Melody Mendez
Valentia Tueros
Layla Brovelli
Nolan Officer
Natalia Rodriguez- Valenica
Diana Sanchez Espitia
Mila Meats
Oliver Avina
Dahila Narvaez
Duke Yepson
Mays Molinari
Elena Cerrillo Fernandez
AC
Roman Bolanos
Alice Quisenberry
Elyza Lopez
Nico Garcia
Elliyah Lopez
Jenalynn Dilag
Leiana Jordan
Casey Soby
Celina Baldomero
Akira Hall
Josiah Wills
Cristobal Rizo Lopez
Victoria Gutierrez
Emily Sullivan
Willow Site Redwood Site
Estella Savala
Remington Ahnfeldt
Violet Memmott
Natalia Magdaleno Rios
Violet Costanza
Jaime Yoder
Joshua Martin
Gaia Murillo
Samuel Breedlove
Victoria Gutierrez
SamanthaRae Becerra
Johannes Solorio
Gavin Madison
Ruby Chan
Nicolas Sarmiento
Alaiya Adams
Genesis Recinos
Bella'Rose McDole
Corinne Harris
Eliza Hernandez
Olivia Center
Giuana Couvson
Isaiah Larry
August Williams
Ellyce Soffner
Unidos Site
Annabel Hernandez Campos Alexander Medrano
Drew Gallegos Ariana Corona
Daniel Zamora Fuentes
Olivia Salceda
Rose Harrington Ellyce Soffner
Chloe Mendoza-Fabiani
Emily Sullivan
Janetzi Moran
Josh Hadeler
Kailani Medina Poueu Humberto Sepulveda
Osirys Jimenez-Rodriguez
Emilio Solorio
Sky Corona-Thomas
Jaidyn Garcia
Jorge Eduardo Campos
Ramirez
Melanie Gonzaga
Jocelyn Laird
Josephine Mueller
Amy & Angelina Vidal Gomez
Aalia Harris
Dawn Bonner
Corinne Harris
Jaiden Aldape
Dawn Bonner
Aspyn Piolet
Leonardo Morazan
Oliver Karn
Jose Aguayo Aguilar
Joseph Bahena
Violette Richins
Jimena Caballero
Amelia Sanchez
Melissa Aguilar
Valerie De Leon
Nayeli Salazar
Forever Mason
Anela Medalle
Leiana Jordan
Uriel Preciado
Isabella Barragan
Jamir Sherwani
Mya Burnett
Nayeli Manzanares
Forever Mason
Alice Quisenberry
Bella'Rose McDole
Dawn Bonner
Anela Medalle
Honorable Mentions: Youth of the Year
Youth of the Year is a year long recognition and service program. Every week, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley identifies teens who excel in our core program areas (Character and Leadership, Education and Technology, Health and Life Skills, the Arts, and Sports, Fitness and Recreation). From these teens, a Member of the Month is selected. Each of these youth have qualities we look for as a potential Youth of the Year, the Clubs’ highest honor, and we’re eager to see what they accomplish. These are definitely teens you should keep your eye on!
Club 1515
Napa Clubhouse
Club AC American Canyon
Sadoc Rojas Melody Kondor
Laziah Coronado Madilyn Davis
Christian Rabanales Audrey Aliga
Melina Solorio Mikayla Grogan
Paola Barajas Madison Murphy
Samir Martinez Rachel Wu
Edmundo Gonzalez Iyana Billings
Graciela Escobedo Valeria De Leon
Alexandra Martinez Brianna Robanales
Mariana Coronado Zesang Sherab
Emmanuel Rivera Medina Joel Vides
Tommy Conkell Emily Flores
Joel graduated from SF State with a degree in communications. In 2023, he stopped to assist someone who had been involved in a car accident and in helping them decided to return to school this time to train as a nurse. He currently works for Sutter Health in Santa Rosa as a Certified Nursing Assistant as he finishes up his final year of nursing school.
Jahir attended Napa Valley College and worked briefly as a staff at the Boys & Girls Club. He is currently working full time as a care giver at a local Senior Assisted living center. He returned to The Club this past fall to participate in the Teen Center’s “Friendsgiving” event.
Dareydy has a transcendent vibrance and energy. That’s probably why our judges were so taken with her performance as the 2021 youth of the year which took place virtually. As our Youth of the Year she represented the Club in radio interviews and at various speaking events in the Valley.
Azhley, with her tenacious work ethic, graduated early from Valley Oak High School with honors. She is currently enrolled in Cosmetology school as she pursues a career in the Beauty Industry as a hairstylist and is working full time as a barista at Peet’s in Vacaville.
Dareydy captivated the audience at the 2023 event, inspiring those present to discover their individual rhythm and fully embrace their true selves in order to pursue their dreams. As a recent high school graduate, Dareydy has begun her journey as a young adult and is enrolled in Napa Valley College and working at the Club.
Following in the footsteps of her older brother, Laizah took the stage in 2024 to tell her story. “My story was not always the prettiest or easiest to accept, but for many from my community and my culture this is reality and it doesn't always end up like mine. ” That night she was awarded our highest honor and since has represented the Club in numerous capacities as a voice of local youth. We are thrilled that in her senior year of high school she has chosen to return to the stage!
Tonight’s Youth of the Year Candidates
Audrey Aliga Samir Martinez
Melody Kondor Laizah Coronado Club
Madilyn Davis Edmundo Gonzalez Mikayla Grogan Graciela Escobedo
As these youth take the stage tonight please take a moment to think about the 6,000 youth who engaged with our programs this year. Every one of them is worthy of the stage tonight and you can help them on that journey by committing to an ongoing donation. Who wouldn’t want to be a part of that? Please donate!
These youth are AMAZING aren’t they? Share your thoughts with them after tonight’s event. Tell them how their story resonated with you. Encourage them to achieve their goals. Send them a note of congratulations. Just follow the QR code or visit our website at www.NapaYouth.org and click “Add Your Comment!”
Questions shape me, not answers. This is My Voice.
Club AC
Audrey Aliga, age 15
Audrey joined the Club upon moving to American Canyon with her family in 2019. She is a current Sophomore at American Canyon High School and hopes to graduate as valedictorian before becoming an architect to reduce the lack of affordable housing and design homes for those who don’t have access to them.
Club Member Since
Club Engagement
Extra Curriculars
About Audrey
2025
Letter of Recommendation
To Whom It May Concern:
It is my distinct pleasure to write this letter of recommendation for Audrey Aliga as a candidate for the Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year. As her high school English instructor over the past year, I have had the privilege of witnessing Audrey's remarkable growth and development as an exemplary student and a role model among her peers.
I have always known Audrey to be of sound character compassionate, conscientious, disciplined, flexible, honest, optimistic, patient, persistent, resilient, sincere, and driven by an admirable sense of ambition. Over the course of this year, I have observed tremendous growth in her adaptability, communication, leadership, organizational skills, selfmanagement, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. These cultivated strengths, combined with her natural determination, position her to excel in any endeavor she undertakes.
Audrey epitomizes the qualities of a deserving recipient for this prestigious recognition. She is a bright, driven, and highly capable young woman with boundless potential. Her dedication to academic excellence extends beyond my English classroom, as she consistently excels in all her courses. Audrey approaches each challenge with an unwavering determination and a positive attitude, often accompanied by her signature warm smile.
What sets Audrey apart is her eagerness to embrace new challenges and seek opportunities for growth. She is unafraid to ask thoughtful questions or seek clarification, ensuring she thoroughly understands her responsibilities. Whether collaborating on group projects or working independently, Audrey demonstrates an exceptional ability to adapt and engage effectively with diverse groups of people, always keeping the broader goals in focus.
Audrey's work ethic, resilience, and motivation are unparalleled. I have no doubt that she will achieve every ambition she sets for herself, thanks to her tenacity and unwavering commitment to success. It is with the utmost confidence and respect that I wholeheartedly recommend Audrey Aliga as a recipient of the Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year award.
Sincerest regards,
Maicie Rackerby
American Canyon High School English Instructor - Napa California
Questions shape me, not answers. This is My Voice.
Martinez, age 17 Club 1515
Samir
Samir has been a member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Napa Valley since 2013 where he joined our programs at The McPherson Elementary School site. He is currently a Senior at Vintage High School and upon graduation plans to gain more work experience while pursuing a degree in Business and Finance. About Samir
Club Member Since
2025
Letter of Recommendation
To whom it may concern,
I am writing to recommend Samir Martinez Solano for the Napa Boys and Girls Club of America Youth of the Year. I first met Samir 6 years ago when he was a 6th grader in both my Language Arts and Social Studies classes. I remember him as a quiet and kind student. Two years later I had Samir in my 8th-grade Language Arts class. I was amazed by how much he had matured both socially and academically. He had more confidence and was showing responsibility for his learning. Fast forward to this year. I was at a school event when a young man, now taller than me, came over to say hello. It was Samir!
In talking with Samir, I was impressed on many levels. First, he had the confidence to come over and reintroduce himself to me. Many students will avoid eye contact and just walk by. Second, he was at a middle school event to support his younger brother who was getting an award. Watching them, it was clear that Samir’s brother looks up to him. The kind Samir I remember from middle school listened to and engaged with his brother. As a high school senior, he still had time for his younger brother and family. Finally, Samir enthusiastically shared about his classes and activities. He has clearly made the most of his high school years.
Through high school, Samir has been involved in multiple extracurricular activities including band and choir. He stated that he has enjoyed learning new things, especially in Language Arts where he has been exposed to new words and concepts that have helped him to gain a better understanding of the world. Samir also mentioned that he just likes to be there for friends and family. He wants to do what he can to make life easier for those around him. Samir plans to attend Community College where he can continue to explore his interests and decide what his next step will be.
It is with confidence and enthusiasm that I recommend Samir Martinez Solano to be recognized as Youth of the Year for the Napa Boys and Girls Club of America.
Thank you,
Judy Edwards Silverado Middle School
Melody Kondor, age 17 Club AC Questions shape me, not answers. This is My Voice.
Melody has been a member of the Boys & Girls Club of Napa Valley since 2015 where she attended Donaldson Way Elementary. She is currently a Junior at American Canyon High School and plans to apply to Stanford University. About Melody
Club Member Since
Extra Curriculars Club Engagement
2025
Letter of Recommendation
To Whom it May Concern,
I am writing this letter to recommend Melody Kondor for the Boys and Girls Club of Napa Valley’s Youth of the Year scholarship. I had the privilege of teaching Melody as a fourth grader. She was in my very first class of students, so she holds a special memory in my heart. I recently was able to reconnect with Melody and see the lovely young woman she is becoming.
Melody was one of the first students I got to meet when she was my fourth grader. She came to us from Florida. I would imagine that a new student coming from across the country would be shy and nervous for the first few days of school. Not Melody. Melody never lacked confidence. She quickly made a great group of friends and proved to be a high achiever, academically speaking. I remember many instances when Melody would catch a math or spelling mistake I had made while teaching. She had nothing but positive relationships with peers and faculty. Even after she left my classroom, she would often come by to check in with me and catch up.
As I have had the chance to speak with Melody recently, I have learned that she is still the very same driven, respectful, responsible, goodhumored and bright student that I knew several years ago. I know that she is one of those students that I will read about one day as having achieved something spectacular. It is my understanding that she has big plans for college, as she is hoping to attend Stanford University. I have every confidence that she will achieve this goal, one way or another.
I am certain that anyone who gets to know Melody will feel the same way that I do about her. She is a committed student and community member who is wholly deserving of this award. It is for these reasons that I enthusiastically recommend Melody Kondor for the Boys and Girls Club of Napa Valley’s Youth of the Year scholarship.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions and let me know if I can provide any additional information in support of Melody.
Regards,
Katherine McCarver Teacher Donaldson Way Elementary
Questions shape me, not answers. This is My Voice.
Laizah Coronado, Age 17 Club 1515
Laizah has been a member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Napa Valley since 2014 where she joined our programs at The Napa Clubhouse as a 1st Grader. She is currently a Senior at Napa High School and upon graduation plans to pursue a degree in Phycology as a pathway to a career in Mental Health Services. Club Member Since
About Laizah
2025
To Whom it May Concern,
Letter of Recommendation
It is my pleasure to write this letter of recommendation on behalf of Miss Laizah Coronado for consideration of the Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year recognition. This is a young lady who possesses the positive characteristics we here at Napa High School strive to see and develop in all of our students. As an educator of 24 years and a coach for over 20, I am confident in my ability to recognize leadership qualities in an individual; Laizah Coronado most certainly has these qualities.
Laizah clearly demonstrates on a daily basis her desire to help others and make her school and community a more inclusive place. Her involvement in Keystone, St. John’s Church, and Aim High through Napa High School all place her in a position where she can mentor and lead young people to success. Spearheading the Great Fruits Road Trip college visit tour exposed and inspired not only herself, but her peers as well, to dream big and plant the seed for a successful future.
I have the pleasure of having Laizah in my College Prep United States History class. I get to watch on a daily basis her work ethic and kindness. Her work is exceptional. Not only is the work she submits of the highest quality, it is very clear she takes great pride in what she submits for review. Her mastery of the curriculum earned her an A in the fall semester and there is no reason to expect anything less this spring. Additionally, her willingness to question socially accepted norms and critically analyze content assists the students around her and quite frankly, makes my job easier.
Laizah is striving to become the first member in her family to attend and graduate from college. She plans to apply to a number of schools including UCLA and UC Davis. At present time she plans to pursue a degree in Psychology. This is in no way surprising considering her leadership traits, work ethic, desire to help others, and overall kindness.
Writing a letter of recommendation for a student for whom I’ve only known for a short period of time can often be a challenge, but I would respectfully submit, not in this case. I’ve watched her listen attentively to classmates. I’ve watched her clarify directions and take the lead in collaborative group work. In the realm of education, this is leadership at its best.
Laizah Coronado is mature and focused, an exceptional time manager and possesses a wonderful sense of humor. There are no weaknesses, either in her abilities as a student or in her character. She will be a success wherever she goes, and I am very pleased to write this letter on her behalf and send it along with my highest recommendation. Please feel free to contact me if I can be of further assistance.
Todd Pridy Social Science Napa High School
Questions shape me, not answers. This is My Voice.
Club AC
Madilynn Davis, age 17
Madilynn has been a member of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley since 2017. She was one of the Clubs most dedicated members, attending all through the pandemic and relying on the Club to help her cope with distance learning. Currently a Senior at American Canyon High School, she hopes to become a nurse and will always be an advocate for those who feel unheard, heard.
About Madilynn
2025
Dear Selection Committee,
Letter of Recommendation
It is my honor to recommend Madilynn Davis for the title of National Youth of the Year. Over the past four years, I have witnessed Madi’s extraordinary growth as a student, leader, and compassionate community member. Through her involvement in theater, academics, and volunteer work, Madi embodies the values, dedication, and leadership this award celebrates.
I first met Madilynn during her freshman year, beginning her journey in our theater program. Since then, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional creativity, resourcefulness, and drive. This year she took on significant leadership roles, serving as assistant director for both of our mainstage productions and as a student tutor for Drama 1 students. These roles have allowed her to mentor and inspire her peers, fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment. She demonstrates extraordinary organization, communication, and problem-solving skills, often anticipating needs and responsibilities with a level of maturity far beyond her years.
Beyond theater, Madi is deeply invested in her school and community. She has volunteered at our local hospital, served as a Football Sideline Assistant Medical Trainer, and balanced these commitments with rigorous coursework, including community college classes. Her ability to manage multiple responsibilities while maintaining her high standards reflects her discipline, resilience, and passion for making a positive impact.
The Boys & Girls Club has been instrumental in helping Madilynn develop her leadership and interpersonal skills. Through the club’s emphasis on community and personal growth, she has cultivated the confidence and tools needed to mentor her peers and create meaningful change. It is in Madi’s nature to care for others, but it is her ability to create action and momentum that demonstrates her deep commitment to inclusion and teamwork.
Madi’s potential for future leadership success is limitless. Her ability to inspire others, her commitment to bettering her community, and her unwavering drive to achieve her goals make her an exceptional candidate for National Youth of the Year. Whether she is mentoring younger students, organizing a production, or volunteering her time, Madi consistently goes above and beyond, demonstrating the maturity and compassion of a true leader.
In every aspect of her life, Madi demonstrates the qualities of a true leader: compassion, drive, and a commitment to excellence. She has my highest possible recommendation for the National Youth of the Year title and am confident she will not only meet but far exceed the expectations of this prestigious honor.
Sincerely,
Summer Heartt, Theatre Arts teacher & Program Director
Questions shape me, not answers. This is My Voice.
Edmundo has been a member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Napa Valley since 2013, joining our programs as a member of the McPherson Elementary School site. He is currently a Senior at Vintage High School and upon graduation plans to pursue a degree in Kinesiology and his lifelong dream of playing professional soccer. About Edmundo
2025
To Whom it may concern:
Letter of Recommendation
I am very excited and pleased to write this letter of recommendation on behalf of Edmundo Gonzalez. I have known Edmundo for the last three years as he has been a soccer player for me. I have been privileged to work closely and gotten to know Edmundo very well, seeing him grow and develop into the well rounded, capable young man he is today. During this time I have witnessed Edmundo show the dedication, desire, determination, and discipline necessary to succeed as an athlete, student, and individual.
Since I first met Edmundo, he was always a very enthusiastic, mature, and composed individual. As a teacher on campus, I can attest to the enthusiasm and positive energy he brings day in and day out into the classroom. As a student, Edmundo consistently shows the work ethic and determination necessary to graduate and continue his education in college. Edmundo has been able to maintain his GPA while balancing and being involved in extracurricular activities like Boys and Girls club. He has earned Student of the Month recognition as a student throughout his four years at Vintage. Edmundo always has done a great job of managing his time and taking care of his responsibilities.
I have also seen Edmundo excel as an athlete on the soccer field. As one of his coaches, I could always count on Edmundo to show up to practice and games with his strong work ethic. In training, Edmundo would always show the determination to improve on his individual abilities. Through his years in the soccer program he always demonstrated an ability to reflect and dedicate himself to not only improve as an individual, but to also do what was best for the team. He has performed at high levels earning awards and recognition throughout his seasons at Vintage. Edmundo has never been selfish, always willing to help out teammates on or off the field. His attitude was always exemplary. Any setback that Edmundo has faced, he always demonstrated the patience and perseverance to work through it.
I am certain that Edmundo is going to continue to do fantastic things in his future. I highly recommend Edmundo for Youth of the Year. He is a hard working, intelligent, and dedicated young man. Edmundo is truly a stand-out individual who will impress everyone he meets.
Sincerely,
Javier Covarrubias
Questions shape me, not answers. This is My Voice.
Mikayla has been a member of the Boys & Girls Club of Napa Valley since 2012 where they attended Donaldson Way Elementary. They are currently a sophomore at American Canyon High School and plan to attend UC Davis to pursue a degree in Architecture.
2012
About Mikayla
2025
To Whom It May Concern:
Letter of Recommendation
It is with great enthusiasm that I write this letter of recommendation for Mikayla Grogan to be the Youth of the Year]. Having had the privilege to work with Mikayla through various programs and initiatives, I can confidently attest to their exceptional character, leadership abilities, and unwavering dedication to their community and personal growth.
Mikayla has been an active and integral member of the Boys and Girls Club of Napa Valley, where she has consistently demonstrated initiative and commitment. Over the years, she has accumulated over 100 hours volunteering at the club, assisting with facility maintenance, preparing activities, monitoring younger members, and providing academic support. Her willingness to take on diverse responsibilities from tutoring to leading by example has significantly contributed to creating a supportive and enriching environment for others.
Beyond Mikayla’s contributions to the Club, she has shown exceptional leadership across multiple extracurricular activities. As Vice President of Link Crew, she has played a key role in mentoring incoming freshmen, fostering empathy, and cultivating a sense of belonging within their school community. Her election as Senior Class Secretary and AVID Club Treasurer further highlights her peers’ trust in her organizational skills and vision for positive change.
Mikayla also exemplifies entrepreneurial spirit and initiative. She founded a student club focused on helping peers develop business ideas, working closely with the American Canyon Chamber of Commerce. Her efforts include hosting monthly meetings, providing guidance, and inspiring others to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions. Additionally, her business, specializing in selling Oreo truffles, showcases Mikayla’s ability to balance creativity, financial management, and community engagement. Her achievements in this arena have been recognized through awards from the Kids Commerce program.
In athletics and the arts, Mikayla has participated as a varsity swimmer, contributing to team successes through consistent practice and competitive performance. Her dedication to the arts is equally noteworthy, as she has been actively involved in musical theatre, dance performances, and supporting theatrical productions. Mikayla’s involvement reflects her versatility and passion for exploring diverse interests.
Mikayla has a deep sense of purpose and commitment to personal and communal growth. Her involvement in organizations such as the Black Student Union, EBC, and Polynesian Dance Club underscores her desire to connect with and celebrate cultural heritage while fostering inclusivity and understanding.
In addition to Mikayla’s many accomplishments, she has thrived in my leadership classroom over the past two years. She consistently demonstrates an exceptional ability to interact and support her peers, fostering a collaborative and encouraging environment. Her growth has been remarkable, with noticeable development in her confidence and leadership skills each month. Mikayla is a dedicated and compassionate individual who continually uplifts those around her while striving for personal excellence.
In summary, Mikayla is an outstanding individual whose accomplishments, work ethic, and character make her an exemplary candidate for the Youth of the Year Scholarship program. Her dedication to making a positive impact on her community, coupled with her determination to achieve her aspirations, is inspiring. I am confident that she will continue to excel and bring value to any endeavor she undertakes.
Sincerely,
Melissa Harris, Leadership Teacher, Director of Activities, AVID Site Coordinator, ACHS
Questions shape me, not answers. This is My Voice.
Graciela Escobedo, age 17 Club 1515
Graciela has been a member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Napa Valley since 2013 where she joined our programs at The McPherson Elementary School site. She is currently a senior at Vintage High School and upon graduation plans to attend a 4 year university to pursue a degree in Viticulture.
Club Member Since
About Graciela
2025
To Whom It May Concern:
Letter of Recommendation
Please consider this letter in support of Graciela Escobedo Avina for Youth of the Year through the Boys & Girls Club of America. I had the unique pleasure of mentoring Graciela through the Patrick Foley Fields of Opportunity 8-week summer mentorship at Silverado Farming Company, LLC. A collaboration between Napa Valley Grapegrowers, Napa Valley Farmworker Foundation, Napa Valley Unified School District and the Napa Valley Education Foundation, Fields of Opportunity is an innovative mentorship program connecting Napa Valley employers with motivated high school students to explore a career in the vineyard & wine community.
Graciela impressed us at Silverado Farming Co. with her poise and professionalism in her video interview months before she started her internship with our viticulture team. In her first days, she was eager to learn and asked many thoughtful questions during her ride-alongs with each team member. Graciela demonstrated an interest and curiosity pertaining to the socioeconomic and cultural intricacies present within our farming community. We felt that the conversations we shared displayed a level of maturity that is not often seen in a student of her age.
As a viticulture intern, Graciela’s tasks included activities such as scouting vineyards for grapevine diseases and insect pests, collecting petioles for nutrient analysis and taking measurements of grapevine water status. In each training session, Graciela excelled at following directions and was extremely quick to understand the task being assigned to her. After demonstrating her competence to complete the task, I had full confidence in her to visit vineyards on her own and do her assigned daily duties correctly and efficiently. By the end of the summer, she was leading and directing farmworker crews through educational meetings in the field.
Outside of her time at Silverado Farming Company, she participated in weekly soft skill and career development workshops on subjects including budgeting, goal setting, and leadership. These workshops helped to build confidence to where Graciela felt comfortable with leading our weekly team huddles. Additionally, Graciela was balancing a multitude of responsibilities including her involvement with the Boys and Girls Club, where she has been a member for numerous years, as well as her second part-time job at Safeway. There were many days where she would finish her day in the vineyard and then immediately go to work at the grocery store. Additionally, she was selected to attend the 2024 Boys and Girls Club of America National Conference. At this event, she completed 24 hours of community service, acted as a Keystone Leader and assembled hygiene kits for victims of human trafficking and sexual assault.
Overall, it was an absolute pleasure to work with Graciela this past summer. She was a wonderful addition to our team. Her hard work and dedication are worthy of recognition as Youth of the Year. I have no doubt that her leadership, work ethic and poise would make her a wonderful ambassador for the Boys and Girls Club of America.
Kind regards,
Dr. Lauren Marigliano Associate Viticulturist
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