On March 1, Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties presented its prestigious 2024 Youth of the Year title to local North Port High School student, Bianca D. during the annual Steak & Burger, Youth of the Year Celebration. Four other outstanding teens were in the running for Youth of the Year. Each exemplified the Boys & Girls Clubs’ mission and are proof of the impact the Clubs make in transforming lives: Ashley V., Venice High School, 12th Grade; Ava M., Pine View School, 11th Grade; Nishalle U., Pine View School, 12th Grade; Sierra M., Riverview High School, 12th Grade. Since 1947, Youth of the Year has been the premier recognition program of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America that fosters a new generation of leaders, fully prepared to live and lead in a diverse, global, and integrated world economy. The program celebrates the extraordinary achievements of Club members across the nation. Candidates compete at the local Club, state, and regional levels before attending the national celebration. Youth who compete for these titles embody the values of leadership service, academic excellence, and healthy lifestyles. Bianca is a senior at North Port High School and a member of the Lee Wetherington Boys & Girls Club. She joined the Boys & Girls Clubs in 2021 through the Students Taking Active Roles (STAR) Leadership Program.  Since 2015, the organization has had five State Youth of the Year, two state runner-ups, one state finalist, three Regional Youth of the Year winners, one regional runner-up, and one National Youth of the Year. Bianca's commitment to service extends beyond her participation in the Students Taking Active Roles (STAR) program. She has had active roles on the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council, Youth Council, The Club’s Cultural Immersion Program, and Senate Page Program. In addition, she was invited to participate in the 2023 Summit for America’s Youth, BGCA’s premier youth advocacy event where Club members, alongside their adult mentors, have the opportunity to experience the Nation’s capitol, share ideas with members of Congress, and engage in training sessions.Beyond her involvement with Boys & Girls Clubs, Bianca serves as a Youth Leader for the EMCC Youth Choir and participates in the Speech & Debate Club, Student Government, Links Crew, and Key Club at North Port High School. She also serves as a General Assembly member of the National Honor Society. After high school graduation, Bianca plans to study Psychology & Theological Studies at Palm Beach Atlantic University and later hopes to pursue a career as a Marriage & Family Therapist, Entrepreneur, and Preacher. Learn more at bgcsdc.org.