Douglas Co. Student Named Metro ATL's 'Youth Of The Year'

LITHIA SPRINGS, GA — A Lithia Springs High School student has received the highest honor awarded by the metro area's Boys & Girls Clubs.

Kai Hartman has been named the 2017-18 Youth of the Year by Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta. The honor recognizes teens who demonstrate leadership in their schools, clubs and communities.

"I can’t believe I won this big honor,” Hartman said in a news release. "It’s a dream come true. Boys & Girls Clubs has helped me develop into the leader I am today and I want to make a difference by being a strong, positive example for kids and teenagers all across metro Atlanta. I will make you all proud."

A member of the Douglas County Boys & Girls Club, she received the honor at a Nov. 10 ceremony at the Lowes Atlanta Hotel. For winning the award, Hartman will receive a $2,500 college scholarship and will represent metro Atlanta at the statewide Youth of the Year competition.

During the awards ceremony, BGCMA welcomed nearly 20 Youth of the Year nominees and more than 600 attendees, including community leaders, supporters, staff, and family. Attendees heard speeches about where these young leaders started, how the clubs helped shape who they are today, and the dreams they have for the future.

A link to Hartman's winning speech can be found here.

Douglas County Schools Superintendent Trent North recognized the work that Boys & Girls Club does for students in the community.

"The Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta fills a much needed role in our community," North said in the release. "I am so proud that students like Kai are able to benefit from the guidance, academic support and leadership training the club provides."

BGCMA serves more than 3,300 children and teens each year. Youth of the Year is a year-round character and leadership program that recognizes club members who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership skills, and service to their community.

BGCMA also focuses on helping youth succeed in school and live healthy. By 2020, the organization is working to ensure that 90 percent of the youth it serves are graduating on time, living healthy and giving back to their communities.

Photo courtesy Douglas County School System