Youth of the Year winners demonstrate by doing  
By Cheri Tiernan  
Pacific YOY: Ambrosia Hafen-Hayes

Rescued by her grandparents from a children's shelter after being abandoned by her mother, Ambrosia Hafen-Hayes learned early how to handle life's challenges. Later returning to her mother's care, Hafen-Hayes had to quickly assume the role of parent when her mother was diagnosed with brain seizures.

Joining the Boys & Girls Clubs of Las Vegas motivated Hafen-Hayes' already determined outlook by providing her with opportunities to assume leadership roles and help other young people. As a member of the Torch Club, she implemented community projects to beautify her neighborhood and make it a safer place for families. She also was active in other Club programs, including SMART Moves and the Keystone Club.

Her volunteer efforts also paid off at school. Being a dedicated member of her school band, Hafen-Hayes helped raise money to provide uniforms for members in need. A high school senior, Hafen-Hayes plans to attend the University of Nevada at Las Vegas in the fall.


Southeast YOY: Kewanna Daniels

Kewanna Daniels had her life turned upside down several years ago when her grandmother died, leaving her to be raised by her 19-year-old sister. As a child, Daniels sought refuge at the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast in Mississippi, where she was a 12-year member of the Forest Heights Unit.

As an active member of her Keystone Club, Daniels led by example, tutoring younger Club members, performing in the youth choir and serving as a junior staff member. Daniels was also selected as a teen board member for the Partnership for a Healthier Mississippi, representing her Club, school and community.

Despite her busy schedule, Daniels maintained a 3.5 grade point average and was student council vice president in her senior year. Currently, she attends Tougaloo University, where she is a pre-med student.

 

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