LOCAL TEEN NAMED GEORGIA YOUTH OF THE YEAR

Thursday April 15, 2010 - In addition to winning this prestigious title, Rucker will also receive a $1,000 scholarship from the Reader’s Digest Foundation. He is among hundreds of Youth of the Year winners across the country recognized by Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) for his sound character, leadership skills and willingness to give back to the community.

Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can receive. The title recognizes outstanding contributions to a member’s family, school, community and Boys & Girls Club, as well as personal challenges and obstacles overcome. This program was founded over 60 years ago through the generosity of the Reader’s Digest Foundation. “The Reader’s Digest Foundation has been the proud sponsor of the Youth of the Year program since 1947,” said Susan Fraysse Russ, executive director, Reader’s Digest Foundation. “For over 60 years, we have had the great honor of saluting amazing teens, like Teryan Rucker, for their dedication to their families, Club, community, and their academic and career goals.”

“Our Club is extremely proud of Teryan and his accomplishments,” stated Joe Ethier, chief professional officer, Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall County. “Clubs serve over 100,000 young people in the state of Georgia and the fact that he has been recognized as the leader of that group is staggering. This award is the first of its kind for a member of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall County and is a testament to his hard work, our staff and the support of our community. He is a shining example of the good works that happen within our walls on a daily basis.”

Teryan Rucker attributes much of his success in school and future aspirations to the life lessons he learned while at the Clubs. Raised by his mom, a single-parent, Rucker’s life took a tragic turn on January 1, 2009 when his mother suddenly died in his arms. The first person he called was the director of the Boys & Girls Clubs Teen Center, Derrick Caldwell. “I knew that he would talk to me and help me with anything.” Rucker said. “He told me I could let this tear me down, send me to the streets or I could let this be an inspiration to become everything I dreamed of and fulfill my mamma’s dreams.” “The Boys & Girls Club has given me such much over the years and now I want to give back by helping other children and the community by being active in community service clubs like the Keystone Club.” Keystone Club is a leadership and service club for boys and girls ages 14-18.
Rucker attends Gainesville High school where he was the captain of the football team and is involved with various clubs including F.C.A and the Academics Club. He believes "Education is the key to success". Despite the various obstacles facing youth today, he has found the motivation within himself to remain strong minded and career driven. Rucker knows that he needs his education to be successful in life and will attend North Greenville College in the fall where he has received a scholarship to play football.

“Teryan and all Youth of the Year nominees are living proof that Boys & Girls Clubs across the country are fulfilling their mission of inspiring and enabling young people,” said Roxanne Spillett, president, BGCA. “We are most appreciative to the Reader’s Digest Foundation for their long-time support of our Youth of the Year program and for helping Club members attain their goals.”

This summer, Rucker will compete against other youth from states located in BGCA’s Southeast Region. If named regional winner, he will be awarded a $10,000 college scholarship and advance to the national competition in Washington. The National Youth of the Year receives an additional $15,000 college scholarship and will be installed by President Barack Obama during a ceremony in the Oval Office.