East Hall student wins Boys & Girls Clubs Youth of the Year

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Lanier named Charisma Cheeks as Youth of the Year for 2019 for her outstanding accomplishments and role model behavior.

Cheeks has been a part of the Lanier Boys & Girls Clubs for 11 years. She said that the organization has always been special to her, especially while she endured family losses. 

During her time with the Lanier clubs, Cheeks has volunteered to help younger members with their homework and has made care packages for the elderly community through her church. Cheeks said that she sees winning the award as a way "to help the generations to come."

Cheeks will go on to represent the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier on a state level and compete for a $5,000 scholarship. If she wins at the state level, Cheeks will go on to compete at regional and national competitions. 

Cheeks said she is looking forward to starting her college journey at Columbus State University where she plans to study sports medicine. 

Three students from Gainesville High School were also recognized at the event for their achievements - Dionte Daniel, 16; Jonlyn Forest, 14; and Alexis Rucker, 14.

According to Boys & Girls Clubs officials, students are chosen based on written essays, personal interviews, public speaking, demonstrated leadership, character, community service, academic excellence and healthy lifestyles. 

Finalists of the Youth of the Year Awards: (L) Charisma Cheeks, Alexis Rucker, Jonlyn Forest and Dionte Daniel

A member from Cheek's family films her while she delivers her speech.

The audience got a laugh at finalist Dionte Daniel's Florida Gators, Georgia Bulldogs jokes during his speech.

Charisma Cheeks, the winner of the 2019 Youth of the Year award, and senior at East Hall High School.

The audience at the awards ceremony, while CEO Steven Mickens delivers the opening.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2019/2/760944/east-hall-student-wins-boys-girls-club-youth-of-the-year