2014-2015 Northeast Region Youth of the Year
Club/Organization: Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City
Length of Membership: 8 years
College/University: Richard Stockton College of New Jersey
Major: Political Science
Career Aspiration: to be a teacher or a community leader
“I lead by appreciating what I have AND listening to my heart when it tugs for something more. When it pushes me to stand for something, or bring an idea into existence, or give back to a community."
Sparkle needed a place to escape the dangerous streets of Atlantic City. After losing her mother at a young age, in addition to growing up without a father, Sparkle was left virtually homeless. She joined her Club at a very volatile time in her life but quickly found her second family there. As her confidence grew, she become more active in Club and school activities, gaining strength from her fellow Club members and staff. At school, she joined the basketball and softball teams, served on the yearbook staff, and participated in community theater. She was also instrumental in spearheading the Mayor’s Youth Empowerment Council for the City of Atlantic City.