High School Student Named Youth of the Year

REDLANDS>> Citrus Valley High School Jr., Isabel Cruz, has been named Youth of the Year for Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Redlands-Riverside. Cruz was one of four high school students who wrote essays on the topic of either club experience, personal brand, or their vision for America. Each student gave a short speech on how the club has impacted them, before being interviewed by a panel of judges. Other contestants included Adrian Chavez, Tyryn Cleveland, and Christopher Monterroza, who were designated Youth of the Year ambassadors and will go on to serve as spokespeople for the clubs. They will also be honored at club events taking place in the spring and be awarded with college scholarships. Cruz spoke about the importance of encouraging other teens to have self-confidence. She also spoke about bullying and how much her life had changed since coming to the Boys & Girls Club. "Being a member of the Club has opened my eyes to how important personal growth is for teens who have been in my position", said Cruz. "It showed me that no matter how many times I fall due to someone’s negative judgement, I can get up and keep moving forward with my newly gained confidence”. After meeting with club staff and other members, Cruz says she felt inspired to do better in school. After high school, she plans to go to a community college and then transfer to to USC or UC Berkeley. Cruz hopes to become an author or journalist. On March 18, Cruz competed in Boys & Girls Clubs' San Andreas Area Council Youth of the Year contest and finished second. Cruz is also a member of the Keystone Club, the organization’s community service program, and is an active volunteer at her church.