The Boys & Girls Club of Cypress selected two members as Youths of the Year: Kyle Rekedal of the Moody Branch and Alex Ha of Club King. They were honored at a county-wide celebration along with representatives from the other 15 Clubs in Orange County.
Alex is a sixth grade student at King Elementary School in the Cypress School District. He has been a member for the past three years and is very respectful to staff and enjoys helping his peers and staff whenever he can.
“Alex is an extremely smart kid who always has a positive attitude at Club King. His positive attitude is contagious to others,” Allison Valois, Club King Site Coordinator, said.
Kyle Rekedal is a seventh grade student at Lexington Junior High School in the Anaheim Unified School District. He is a good student who works diligently on his school work and engages in a variety of activities at the Club. Kyle also volunteers his time at the Club two days a week as part of the Junior Staff program.
“Kyle has excelled in his school work and has shown a lot more interest in outside activities this year. In doing so he has really matured during the past year,” stated Isaac Rivera, who coordinates the Youth of the Year program at the Moody Branch. Isaac is a Club alumni and former Youth of the Year who now works at the Boys & Girls Club.
“Our staff members make connections with the kids and gets to know them personally. They genuinely care about their interests, struggles, and successes. Kyle and Alex are two wonderful Club members that represent hundreds of others who work hard, make a difference in the community, and give us hope for a positive future,” remarked Sue Osbon, Area Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Cypress.
Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can receive. It recognizes outstanding contributions to a member’s family, school, community and Boys & Girls Club, as well as overcoming personal challenges and obstacles. Youth of the Year encourages Club members to reach their full potential by achieving academic success, leading healthy lifestyles and contributing to their communities. Youth of the Year honorees such as Alex and Kyle are shining examples and living proof that great futures start at Boys & Girls Clubs.
