Community Spotlight: Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee Announces Youth of The Year

BGC Manatee President Carl Weeks and Edonya Timmons

BRADENTON –  The Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County is proud to announce that Edonya Timmons has been selected as the Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County 2013 Youth of the Year. Timmons, age 15 and a Freshman at Bayshore High School, is a true example of an extraordinary youth. Edonya is among hundreds of local Youth of the Year winners across the country recognized by Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) for sound character, leadership skills and willingness to give back to the community.

Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can receive. The title recognizes outstanding contributions to a member’s family, school, community and Boys & Girls Club, as well as personal challenges and obstacles overcome. This program was founded over 62 years ago through the generosity of the Reader’s Digest Foundation.

Edonya Timmons has been a member of the Desoto Boys & Girls Club for the past 4 years. 

“BGC has given me the confidence to serve in leadership roles in the various groups I am involved. I don’t think I would be as focused on my future or school if it wasn’t for the staff and programs at the Club. I am so proud of myself and feel like I have already accomplished so much,” Miss Timmons said.

Miss Timmons will represent the Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County at the Florida State Youth of the Year conference in April.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County serves over 6,000 youth at seven locations (Daughtrey Elementary, Harllee Middle School, Johnson Middle School, Southeast High School, Bradenton, DeSoto and Palmetto Clubs).The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.