Burlington High School senior Ali Ali, a member of the Boys & Girls Club of Burlington, has been named Vermont State Youth of the Year for 2022 and will advance to the Northeast Regional Youth of the Year competition June 23 in New York City. The award is presented annually by the Boys & Girls Clubs of America to an individual who personifies the organization's mission to realize one's full potential as a productive, healthy, responsible and caring citizen.
“Ali has always been a standout among his peers,” said Jack Stackhouse, teen program director at the Boys & Girls Club of Burlington. “With his calm and approachable demeanor, Ali has been demonstrating his leadership abilities at our club since his first day.”
In addition to completing an extensive application process, Ali presented a powerful speech to judges during the April competition. He demonstrated his belief in the Boys & Girls Club of Burlington’s mission while also serving as a great mentor and role model for younger club members.
“School has always been a challenge for me,” he said. “[The] club’s resources have helped me become more attentive academically and have helped me understand the importance of school. ... I will always be indebted to my club for guiding me to live a life that I otherwise couldn’t.”