Club Kids

Emerging Leaders
Our 13,000 members comprise youth from the beginning stages of life at 6 weeks old all the way through their journey to adulthood at 18 years of age. The all come from different backgrounds and economic situations, but by coming to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia, they’re all discovering the way to pave a path to a brighter tomorrow.
 
Martisha Hardy 2010 Youth of the Year
A three-year member of the Wissahickon Club, Martisha is a senior at the Academy at Palumbo and a member of the first graduating class. Martisha first became involved as a junior counselor in the Club’s summer camp program and she now holds the title of Vice President of the Keystone Club. At school, she writes for the newspaper and is responsible for public relations for the step squad. In the fall, Martisha will be attending Kutztown University, where she will study psychology. “I know there is always someone I can turn to at the Club if I need to talk about something. I know I can call on the staff at any time, day or night and even on the weekends,” says Martisha.   
 
The Youth of the Year is a prestigious honor that recognizes superior leadership skills, academic achievement, one’s ability to overcome obstacles, and outstanding service to the Boys & Girls Clubs and community. Sponsored by the Readers Digest Foundation, it includes a $1,000 college scholarship and allows the winner to represent Philadelphia at the State Youth of the Year competition in Harrisburg. The winner of the state competition receives a $5,000 scholarship and the ability to compete for National Youth of the Year, which includes an additional $10,000 scholarship and recognition by the President of the United States.