Glen Cove Boys & Girls Club February Youth of the Month

Junior Youth of the Month Nicolle, 11, a fifth grader Connolly Elementary School, hopes to become an art teacher when she grows up. She loves art but also relishes learning math, science, social studies and English language arts. Nicolle, who has been a member for two years, attends the Club with her sister on a daily basis. She participates in many Club activities including the Cooking Up Energy program where she is learning how to cook and make healthy food choices. Nicolle particularly likes playing with her friends in the games room and the gym. “I love being at the Club. I really feel comfortable and safe and I get a lot of help here,” said Nicolle who credits staff and volunteers for assisting with homework and especially group leader, Mr. Dah-keem (Williams), for his patience and kindness. When not at school or the Club, Nicolle enjoys playing basketball and football, reading and playing video games.

Yefri D, 15, is budding into the Club’s shining star teen, having won the Youth of the Month title for the third time. In spite of winning this coveted title three times, Yefri remains humble, “I just try to be myself, be considerate of others, try new things, volunteer and help my friends.” Yefri is a ninth grader at Glen Cove High School and his favorite subjects are science and English. He auditioned for and accepted to the School’s Select Chorale. He also made Honor Roll. Yefri is a fine example of what is anticipated of Club members and what they are able to achieve. A member for eight years, Yefri attends the Club every day and when he is at the Club, he conducts himself in a respectful manner, works hard, participates in several programs, and has many friends and volunteers to help the less fortunate. “Mr. Jordan (Alexander) and Ms. Desirae (O’Neill) are role models for me. They guide me and inspire me to become a better person and in turn, I try to be a role model for my sister.” Yefri also praised Mr. Chris (Ricco) the Club’s new Program Director. “I feel like I have already gotten to know him very well. He’s teaching us to customize our video game controllers and he is encouraging me to explore opportunities in the tech field.”