Oxnard Teen Honored as BGCOP's 2016 Youth of the Year

    OXNARD, CA, March 03, 2016 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Singled out among several outstanding youth, 18-year-old Glenda Guzman has been chosen as this year's Youth of the Year by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme.

A seven-year Club member, Guzman is a senior at Oxnard High School and plans to study criminology at Northern Arizona University in the fall.

"The Keystone Leadership Program [at the Club] has taught me many things: business skills, networking, leadership skills, how to teach others to lead as well as how to speak in public. I went from being a shy girl to a confident young lady," said Guzman.

The Youth of the Year competition recognizes outstanding contributions to a member's family, school, community and Boys & Girls Club local organization, as well as overcoming personal challenges and obstacles. Youth of the Year encourages Club members to reach their full potential by achieving academic success, leading healthy lifestyles and contributing to their communities. Youth of the Year honorees are shining examples and living proof that great futures start at Boys & Girls Clubs.

"We are so proud of Glenda. She is an amazing young lady who uses her positive attitude, humility, honesty and perseverance to help others," said said Erin Antrim, chief executive officer, BGCOP. "Glenda is a great role model for others and is an inspiration to youth and adults alike."

Guzman has been involved with Keystone Leadership Program for seven years, five of which as vice president; she currently serves as president of the club. At school, she has been in the Law and Public Services Academy since 10th grade and is involved with Key Club, a volunteer-oriented club. She is also currently taking AP statistics to help her get ahead in college credits.

An undocumented immigrant, Guzman has overcome many obstacles in her life. She credits the Club for giving her guidance and helping her through some challenging times. The Club gave her support and assisted her in getting her employment authorization card. During her years at the Club, she has gained self-confidence and hopes to give back to BGCOP in the future by guiding teens the way her mentors have guided her.

The Boys & Girls Club has served the youth of Oxnard and Port Hueneme for over 60 years. With three full-service clubs and 18 school program sites, the organization is one of the largest of its kind in California. The Club provides programs for more than 9,200 youth and teens in three priority outcome areas: Academic Success, Good Character and Citizenship, and Healthy Lifestyles. For more information please visit http://www.BGCOP.org.

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