More than 1,300 friends and supporters of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming stepped up for youth in Wyoming at the 19th Annual Awards & Recognition Breakfast. The largest fundraiser of the year for the Club, donations totaling $743,897.00 have been given to date as part of year two of the Positive Outcomes Initiative.

“It was an incredible morning celebrating Peter Wold and his contributions to our state, hearing Henry Winkler’s inspiring message of discovering our personal greatness, and seeing our community show up in such a big way for the young people of our state,” said Ashley Bright, CEO, BGCCW. “With the support toward the Positive Outcomes Initiative, we will be able to address a variety of needs within the Club including capital and transportation needs, continuing to support the day-to-day operations of our organization, growing our endowment and more. We are truly humbled and so thankful!”

​Also at the Breakfast, the 2017-18 Central Wyoming Youth of the Year was awarded to Catherine “Cat” Williams, a junior at Kelly Walsh High School. ​Cat won a $5,000.00 Ruth R. Ellbogen Scholarship and will go on to compete at the state competition for a chance to win a University of Wyoming full tuition and fees (supplement to Hathaway) scholarship.

Dr. Laurie Nichols, University of Wyoming president, joined Ashley Bright in the announcement of a new partnership between Wyoming Boys & Girls Clubs and the University that would mean additional scholarship support for Club members across the state, a mentorship program, and Club participation in the University’s annual Campus Pass program which includes tickets to a UW Football game.

A businessman, husband, father and longtime Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming board member, Matt Cassel was this year’s recipient of the Mick & Susie McMurry Cowboy Code Try Award. Matt took a risk in the late 1990’s by ditching a successful career in computer sales and later insurance to launch his own business based around gear management systems for fly fishing. Today, Cliff Outdoors products can be found in hundreds of the best fly shops in the world. Mr. Cassel’s dedication to the Club began in the early 1990’s when he was asked to serve a term on the board of directors. Since then, his three daughters grew up in the Club and are now alumni, and Matt remains the longest serving board member with 25 years of service.

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Visit our Facebook page to see more photos from the event.