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OUTSTANDING HALL COUNTY TEEN TO COMPETE FOR STATE YOUTH OF THE YEAR HONOR
Friday February 20, 2009 - Rucker is among hundreds of local 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.
Teryan Rucker has been a member of the Boys & Girls Clubs since he was six years old. He 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.
If Rucker wins at the state competition, he will compete for the title of Southeast Region Youth of the Year and an additional $10,000 scholarship from Reader’s Digest. The five regional winners will advance to Washington, D.C., in September 2009 to compete for the title of BGCA’s National Youth of the Year. The National Youth of the Year receives an additional $15,000 college scholarship and is installed by the President in an Oval Office ceremony.
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