For more than 75 years, the Youth of the Year program has recognized young people
for their outstanding leadership, service, academic excellence, and dedication to
health and wellbeing. Rima Bell was named the 2024 Midwest Youth of the Year by the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
This prestigious honor was awarded during the Youth of the Year celebration dinner
in Chicago on June 27, highlighting Rima’s success in a competitive field of peers
from 12 Midwestern states. Rima will next head to Atlanta to compete in the National
Youth of the Year competition on Sept. 18.
Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club kid can receive. The teen
selected to be the National Youth of the Year represents Boys & Girls Clubs of America
and the voices of millions of Club youth. The Club supports more than 5,000 Boys &
Girls Clubs in providing opportunities and experiences for America’s teens to thrive,
understanding that having a place to belong and someone who believes in you can have
a powerful impact. The Youth of the Year is a shining example of this and exemplifies
what it means to be a part of the Club.
As detailed in their program, becoming National Youth of the Year is an exciting and
inspiring journey. Each year, thousands of Club teens participate in local, state
and regional Youth of the Year events. Six teens, including five regional winners
and a national military youth winner, advance to the National Youth of the Year Celebration,
where one outstanding young person is named Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s national
teen spokesperson. The National Youth of the Year is a role model, leader, and advocate
for the millions of youth served by Boys & Girls Clubs each year, and all of America’s
young people.
A rising junior at Career Academy South Bend, an Education One at Trine University
public charter school, Rima started her journey with Club as a Kindergartener at the
Harrison Club site. The club emphasized how she has shown remarkable resilience through
personal tragedy, emerging as a leader and role model for her peers. Her story is
a testament to the transformative power of the Boys & Girls Club.
“Without Boys & Girls Clubs' presence in my life, I would have missed out on crucial
experiences that have not only expanded my perspective but have also empowered me
to strive for my goals,” Rima expressed.
The Boys & Girls Club of St. Joseph County was elated to celebrate one of their very
own during the dinner celebration. Rima credits the supportive atmosphere and staff
at the Club for guiding her through challenging times and giving her the inspiration
to become the leader she is today.
Rima concluded her speech in Chicago with: “As I stand here today, I'm deeply honored
to be considered for the Boys & Girls Club Midwest Youth of the Year. This recognition
isn't just about me; it's a celebration of the Club's commitment to nurturing resilient,
caring, and responsible young leaders who will shape our future. I can give people
like me opportunities. I can be the difference. And I can create an environment for
others to succeed."
To learn more about Education One and Career Academy Network of Public Schools, visit:
https://www.trine.edu/education-one/
