Arlington Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year - Lane Hogan

"Lane is proof that a smile can be seen behind a mask."

Lane Hogan is the 2021 Arlington Boys & Girls Club (ABGC) Youth of the Year. This is a great honor but doubly so because it is the second time Lane will represent the Club and will compete for the Massachusetts Youth of the Year title in May. Lane is 17, a senior at Arlington High School and plans to study Special Education in college.

Lane has been an ABGC member since she joined the Club as a preschool student. Like a butterfly emerging from her cocoon, Lane started out timid and shy but with an infectious smile and warm personality and, with the support of Club staff, has transformed into a spectacular ambassador, an unparalleled volunteer and an extremely valued employee to the Club. Lane is often described as sparkling, joyful, thoughtful, trustworthy, motivating, generous and stellar! Lane is nothing short of outstanding.

Through her self described "life changing" volunteer work at the Club, Lane realized her passion, skill and natural ability for connecting with children with disabilities. As a 12 year old summer camp counselor-in-training Lane's innate patience and kindness enabled her to develop a lovely bond with a young camper with Downs Syndrome. Her outstanding work with this camper was recognized and supported by Club staff and really sent Lane's confidence soaring. At 14 Lane was encouraged by staff to take the lifeguarding course. After she passed the test Lane was trained as an adaptive aquatics instructor where she works with children with disabilities to provide a fun, safe swim lesson in a welcoming environment. Lane also volunteers with the ABGC's Special Olympics program and is the President of Arlington High School's Best Buddies Club. One can easily see why studying to be a Special Education Teacher is an absolute natural extension of all that is remarkable about Lane.

Lane is a gift. She is so very special. She makes everyone around her better. Lane has such a bright future and we can't wait to watch her shine! She is an asset to Arlington and will represent so well at the Massachusetts Youth of the Year competition! It's our turn to be Lane's biggest cheerleader!