Glen Cove Boys & Girls Club Summer Stars

Edward M. and Ellie K. have been named Glen Cove Boys & Girls Club’s Youth of the Summer for their outstanding conduct, dedication and commitment to the Club and their peers during the organization’s six-week Around the World in 30 Days program.

Senior Youth of the Summer, Edward M., 14, is a perpetually upbeat and energetic Club member who dreams of becoming a comedian or a director. “The Club has helped me to become a different person. I used to fight a lot but now I’m calmer, like I have a different personality, and I think the Club has helped to bring out the comedian in me,” said Edward. In fact, he credits Technology Coordinator Mr. Matt (Gagliardi), for introducing him to filmmaking and teaching him how to make videos. ”I like to make people laugh and I make funny videos which are posted on Youtube. I would really like to attend film school somewhere close to home, maybe NYU.” Edward, who has been a Club member for five years, has developed a great respect for his Group Leaders and praises them for helping him with his homework, providing guidance and encouraging him to grow up and become more mature. “I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Edward grow into the kind-hearted, good-natured, well-rounded young man he is today,” said Education Director, Sean O’Callaghan. Edward is also passionate about giving back to the Club and spent most of this summer volunteering and helping staff as much as possible. Edward graduated from Robert M. Finley Middle School in June and will entering the ninth grade at Glen Cove High School in September.

Junior Youth of the Summer, Ellie K., 10, will be entering the fifth grade at Connolly Elementary School in September. Ellie takes great pride in listening to her Group Leaders, doing the right thing and helping staff. She hopes to become a teacher when she grows up. “I like to teach younger kids and help them the way I was helped,” said Ellie. “The Club encourages me to try harder and not to quit,” she added. Her favorite subject in school is math. “I used to have a tough time with math but my father and the Club really worked with me and now it is my favorite subject.” Ellie, who has been a member for four years, attends regularly during the school year when she participates in many of the Club’s programs and activities. She also participates in the Club’s Summer Program and especially enjoyed this year’s Around the World in 30 Days theme learning about different countries. “I studied about countries before but I didn’t get to know as much as I did during the Summer Program. I really discovered interesting facts and more cultural aspects of each country.” Ellie credits Summer Youth Employment staff member Khyla B. for supporting and encouraging her, and giving her advice.”