Schools
Carlsbad Teen Receives $10,000 College Scholarship
Vanessa Garcia Named Boys & Girls Clubs of Carlsbad's Youth of the Year
Everyone knows Vanessa Garcia, Samantha Bowen, and Marcos Fausto are winners. Now it’s official! The three young people were selected as Boys & Girls Clubs of Carlsbad’s Youth of the Year Winner and Runner-Ups respectively.
The Youth of the Year program recognizes superior leadership skills, academic achievement, obstacles overcome, and outstanding service to Boys & Girls Clubs and the community. Thanks to the generosity of Julie and Matt Harelson, Keith Blackburn, and Kim Akers of West Inn & Suites, Vanessa will receive a $10,000 college scholarship and Samantha and Marcos will receive $1,500 for higher education purposes.
“It is such an honor for me to represent the place that I love so much,” enthused winner Vanessa Garcia. “I am grateful to have been selected to represent the Club, as it has an incredible impact on my life and I want to share my story with others.”
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Well deserving of this prestigious award, Vanessa has a remarkable work ethic and sets a great example for her peers. At Carlsbad High she takes three AP classes, plays on the junior varsity basketball team, and dedicates her weekends to the Young Marines. She dreams of attending medical school and becoming a surgeon.
“Vanessa is a true representation of our Club. She grew up here – she’s been a member for four years – and has blossomed into an amazing young woman,” said Teen Program Director Abby Snyder. “Her dedication and motivation to be the best she possibly can be is remarkable. Vanessa is on the way to a truly bright future.”
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Recognition was given to Vanessa, Samantha, and Marcos, as well as two other Youth of the Year finalists, at the Club’s Super Star Dinner held on February 11 at their Village Clubhouse. Vanessa will go on to compete for the San Diego County Youth of the Year.
Did you know the Boys & Girls Clubs of Carlsbad is 100% funded by local donors like you? Let us show you how we change lives on a daily basis! Schedule your own personal tour by contacting the Club at (760) 729-0207, visit www.bgccarlsbad.org, or email info@bgccarlsbad.org.
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Pictured (L to R): Scholarship providers Kim Akers and Keith Blackburn, Vanessa Garcia, and Club CEO Brad Holland. Photo Credit: Louise Donahue
