Glen Cove Boys & Girls Club January Youth of the Month

Congratulations to Javier and Kevin.

14 year-old Javier is a ninth grader at Glen Cove High School who hopes to follow his American dream of becoming a Glen Cove business owner. He aspires to pursue a career as a mechanic and succeed at his vocation so that he can open his own automotive shop someday. Javier enjoys all subjects in school and also plays football and lacrosse. He recently joined the Club and is grateful to the Club for providing him with a safe place to go to during the after school hours where he can have fun with his friends. “I feel very comfortable at the Club and it helps me to be stay away from drugs and gangs and all things that can be bad for me,” said Javier, who credits Ms. Desirae (O’Neill) and Ms. Breanna (Townsell), Ms. Jackie (Telleria) and Ms. Vanessa (Caceres) for helping him and providing guidance and support. “Ms. Desirae and Ms. Breanna are always helping me with my homework and encouraging me to think positive and be helpful and kind to everyone.” Javier is indeed a very obliging teenager who can often be found helping staff at the Club.

Kevin, 7, is in the first grade at Deasy Elementary School. He loves the Club so much that he wants to work at the Club when he grows up. “I never want to go home,” said Kevin. “I get very sad when I have to leave. I love it here. I have a lot of fun. I feel safe here and I have a lot of friends and mentors. I love, love, love the Club,” Kevin declared emphatically. Among Kevin’s mentors is Head Group Leader Ms. Giuseppa (Bianco) who he looks up to and admires. “She’s a wonderful leader, the best here!,” said Kevin, who enjoys participating in the Club’s art, technology and educational programs as well as spending time with his friends in the Games Room and gymnasium. He is also eager to get his homework done and prides himself on being incentivized and rewarded for his diligence and good behavior. “I like to earn something for doing a good job and for listening. I feel the Club has made me a way better person. I have learned how important it is to respect and be kind to others. It’s like we are all a family at this Club.”