The Boys & Girls Clubs of West Central Missouri’s Teen Youth of the Year winner, Morgan Hetrick, competed this week at the state Youth of the Year competition.
Hetrick, who attends the Club’s Green Ridge Site, was named BGCWCM’s teen YOY winner in late January. She competed against nine teens from Clubs across the state during a two-day event held in Jefferson City that culminated Wednesday with a luncheon featuring guest speaker Kim Anderson.
“I really enjoyed getting to meet the other contestants and was honored to be able to represent Boys & Girls Clubs of West Central Missouri and the Green Ridge Site,” Hetrick said.
During the YOY event, the contestants each gave a speech detailing how the Club has shaped their experiences in life. Hetrick’s speech focused on bullying and how she plans to continue to fight against bullying through leading an anti-bullying program at the Green Ridge Site.
“This week was a great opportunity for Youth of the Year winners from across the state to come together and share stories about their Clubs and communities,” said Director of Operations Stoney Hays. “Morgan competed very well and we’re proud of her efforts to represent the Boys & Girls Clubs of West Central Missouri.”
“I’d like to thank my parents and especially Mr. Tyler (Hudson, Green Ridge Site Manager) for all of their support throughout this journey,” Hetrick said.
Judges named Aneva Jefferson, of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield as the State Youth of the Year, and Darren Hattig, of Whiteman Air Force Base Youth Center, as the State Military Youth of the Year. Both will now go on to compete at the Midwest regional competition.
