Glen Cove Boys & Girls Club Announces 2017 Youth of the Year

Adiel was awarded the Club’s most coveted title for outstanding achievements and accomplishments, dedication and commitment to the Club, his peers and his family.

When Adiel first became a member of the Club, he was 7 years old and could not speak any English. He was shy, scared and unsure of what was expected of him at school or at the Club. He spent most of his time at the Learning Center where he was able to connect with group leaders and get the one-on-one help he needed with his language skills and homework. He spent most of his time at the Learning Center until he became more comfortable and fluent in English. It wasn’t long before Adiel branched out to take advantage of the many programs available to him at the Club. “I didn’t know anyone and I had a language barrier and that was very challenging for me,” said Adiel. “The Club helped me gain confidence and open up to people and new experiences. It made a huge impact in my life and the Club changed my perspective about everything, school, life. I didn’t think I could go beyond High School. I didn’t consider college or beyond college or that I could hope for a career and become successful. These are the ideals I am aiming for and the ideals I learned from the Club. I also feel a deep sense of responsibility to my parents to take advantage of all the educational opportunities that were not available to them.”

Adiel is now 17 years old and in the 10th grade at Glen Cove High School. He remains academically focused and has made the Principal’s list many times and has been recognized as Student of the month. He is currently enrolled in several honors and college level courses. Adiel is also involved in extracurricular activities including the Track and Field Team and Select Chorale. Participation in Select Chorale offered Adiel a once in a lifetime experience last year when he traveled to Rome with his peers to perform for the Pope.

Adiel, who is very interested in medicine and helping others, plans on volunteering for the Glen Cove Fire Department this summer, specifically with the EMS Corp, patient care providers. After high school, Adiel would like to obtain a college and post college education that will enable him to pursue a career in medicine where he can continue to help others.

“It’s remarkable to see how much Adiel has been able to accomplish over the past 10 years, especially since he had many challenges to overcome as a young child. He has gone from being a nervous shy youth to becoming an esteemed and charismatic young teen. Adiel is hard working, responsible and truly respectful to the staff and his peers. He is also very concerned and considerate of his family,” said Teen Program Director, Breanna Townsell.

Adiel was one of five teens considered for the Youth of the Year title. He will soon be heading to Albany to compete for the Boys & Girls Club of America New York State Youth of the Year Title.

State winners each receive a $5,000 scholarship and advance to regional competitions. Regional winners receive an additional $10,000 college scholarship, renewable for four years up to $40,000. Six youth, including five regional winners and a military winner, advance to the National Youth of the Year competition for a chance at an additional scholarship of $25,000, renewable up to $100,000 for four years. The National Youth of the Year represents all Boys & Girls Club youth.