Youth Programs now accepting BGCA Youth of the Year applications

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Samantha S. Crane
  • 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  Mountain Home Air Force Base Youth Programs is now accepting applications for the Boys and Girls Clubs of America Youth of the Year for the state of Idaho.

Applicants must be at least 14 years old and no more than 18 years old by Jan. 31, 2009; possess a valid state issued identification card and have a record of "active" and "continuous" service in their club for at least two years prior to Jan. 31, 2009.

"The Youth of the Year Program develops club members who are articulate, well-groomed and knowledgeable spokespersons for their community," said Bill Heatter, 366th Services Squadron Youth Programs adolescent/teen programs coordinator. "The program encourages and highlights good citizenship, and personal and civic responsibility. Nominees and winners embody service, leadership and character as peer leaders and role models."

The base has nominated a Youth of the Year candidate each year since 2002 with three winners in the last seven years.

Applications must include a nomination form, written statements to include home and family, moral character, service to community, service to club, school, life goals, obstacles overcome and two written essays: "What My Club Means to Me" and "Why Post High School Education is Important to Me." Applications must also include support documentation to include, but not limited to, letters of recommendations, media articles, official school transcripts, signed job description form and background check authorization form.

Judging will be based on the submitted package and public speaking during the local completion. The winning applicant will be selected by a panel of judges to move on to the state competition held in February.

Completed submission packages, to include all support documentation, must be turned in to Youth Programs no later than Dec. 20.

"This program is a great opportunity and privilege for those selected to represent Mountain Home AFB and the community of Mountain Home," said Mr. Heatter. "It's a time to be recognized for their efforts, commitment, sacrifice and ability to accomplish goals they have set for themselves."

For additional information, call Mr. Heatter at 828-2501, or send an e-mail to bill.heatter@mountainhome.af.mil.