A young lady who wishes to give back all the help and joy she has been given has been named the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming’s Youth of the Year for 2016-17. A senior at Natrona County High School, Sierra White won a $5,000 Ruth R. Ellbogen Education Award, along with the chance to compete at the state level in February.

The Boys & Girls Club has been Sierra’s safe place for eight years after moving to Casper from Texas following a family tragedy. She said she has found where she belongs at the Club and knows she has people here she can trust and turn to for help.

“The Club has given me more than any young person could ask for – family, friends, and protectors. This building, these people, have molded me into young woman I am today,” said Sierra. “I am grateful that they, perhaps, unknowingly saved my life.”

Sierra plans to study nursing in college and become an LPN.

Kaitlin Hudson and Catherine Williams, both sophomores at Kelly Walsh High School, each received a $250 Ruth R. Ellbogen Education Award as finalists.

Established in 1947, Youth of the Year is BGCA’s premier recognition program for Club members, promoting service to Club, community and family; academic success; strong moral character; life goals; and poise and public speaking ability. The program is used as a year-round tool for fostering young people’s character, personal growth and leadership qualities. Contestants are judged in several categories presented in written essays, an oral speech, and live interviews.