Chrisman Student Named Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City Youth of the Year

Courtney Calhoun, a junior at William Chrisman High School, has been named the 2015 Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City Youth of the Year– the highest honor a club member can receive! She won a $1,000 scholarship and now advances to the Missouri Youth of the Year State Competition in April in Jefferson City. Local Boys & Girls Clubs leaders said Calhoun was recognized for her sound character, leadership skills and willingness to give back to the community.

“Courtney was nominated for her consistent participation, great enthusiasm and positive attitude.” said David A. Smith, president and club alumnus of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City. “She is an incredible club member and we are very proud of her.”

Calhoun is a member of the Independence Unit, joining the Boys & Girls Clubs four years ago. She is active in several programs, including the Keystone Club where she currently serves as president.

Every year, Boys & Girls Clubs members across the country are nominated for Youth of the Year honors based on their commitment to academics, home, family and the clubs. Independence club leaders call the 16-year-old a true inspiration. “Courtney can often be found mentoring younger club members or leading club community service projects,” Smith said.

If she wins state, Calhoun will compete for the title of Midwest Region Youth of the Year and an additional $10,000 scholarship. Five regional winners then advance to Washington, D.C. later this year with a chance to become the Boys & Girls Clubs of America National Youth of the Year. The National Youth of the Year receives an additional scholarship of up to $50,000 and has the opportunity to meet with the president at the White House.

For more than 100 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City has provided a fun and safe environment for youth ages 5-18 to learn, play, meet new friends and grow. Nearly 1,000 area youngsters are served by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City every day.