Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota Selects 2025 Youth of the Year

(KNSI) — A young woman from the Eastside Boys & Girls Club in St. Cloud has been named one of the organization’s three 2025 Youth of the Year.

Lavender Jackson, an Eastside Club member since 2021, is a Keystone Teen Leadership club member and mentors younger members. Her passion for art, theatre, and writing inspires those around her. “I was welcomed at the Club with open arms, which gave me the strength to push myself past my limits and fears,” Lavender shared. “I began to express myself more openly and communicate more successfully with others.”

To qualify, participants must be at least 14 years old, have been Club members for at least two years, and share how the Boys & Girls Club has positively impacted their lives. With support from a Club mentor, participants prepare comprehensive packets for judges, including a recommendation from Club staff and essays on their experience, personal growth, and community involvement. They also make a statement titled “What Matters To Me” and deliver a three-minute speech.

This year’s judges, Mike Frey of Deerwood Bank and Bridget Pauna of PCI, reviewed submissions, listened to speeches, and interviewed the participants to select the winner.

The community is invited to celebrate Lavender’s achievement at a reception on January 30th at 4:15 p.m. at the Eastside Boys & Girls Club. Lavender will share her Boys & Girls Club testimony during a brief program at 4:30 p.m. and go on to represent the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota at the state competition in the Twin Cities on March 19th.

As the local Youth of the Year, Lavender will receive a $1,000 scholarship and additional awards through her state-level participation. State winners compete regionally, with opportunities to win up to $70,000 in scholarships through the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

The Youth of the Year program highlights leadership, academic excellence, and healthy lifestyles. Candidates are evaluated on character, communication, teamwork, and integrity. Local winners advance to state, regional, and national competitions, with the National Youth of the Year receiving a $50,000 scholarship.

For more information on Central Minnesota’s Boys & Girls Clubs and programs, click here.