Youth of Year competes at state level

  • Published
  • By Stevie Brown
  • Youth Programs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Air Force Youth Programs are affiliated with the National Boys and Girls Clubs of America. As an affiliate, members can participate in the BGCA premier youth recognition program, the Youth of the Year.

To compete at base level, nominees submit personal essays and information packages describing their involvement with home and family, moral character, community, school, service to Youth Programs, and life goals.

Malmstrom's Youth of the Year, Ashley Moore, 16, is the daughter of Master Sgt. Les and Jennifer Moore. She participated in the Montana State Competition in Kalispell March 28 and is one of hundreds of Youth of the Year local winners across the country recognized by BGCA for sound character, leadership skills and willingness to give back to the community.

Ms. Moore was accompanied to the state competition by her parents.

"It was a fantastic event," they said. "It gave Ashley the experience of speaking in front of people. I think it's great that they do this for the kids."

Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor a member of Malmstrom Youth Programs can receive. The program was founded more than 60 years ago through the generosity of the Reader's Digest Foundation.

Though Ms. Moore was not selected to represent Montana at the BGCA Regional competition, she remained positive.

"The effort for the contest is really worth it," she said. "It taught me that speaking your mind can have a lot of good impact on many."

She also represented Malmstrom at the Air Force Space Command level. Malmstrom was notified April 15 she had been selected the winner and will attend a leadership school in North Carolina this summer.

"We are extremely proud of Ashley," said Cindy Berg, Malmstrom Youth Programs Director. "We have observed her staying dedicated to family, community, and Youth Programs while excelling academically."

For more information about the Youth of the Year and other program opportunities for Malmstrom youth, visit the Youth Center, building 1145, or call 731-2422.