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8

Mar, 2018

BGCR Names 2018 Youth of the Year

A committee of local community leaders interviewed all of the candidates and worked with the
professional staff to select the Youth of the Year. Judges included Lori Berisford, President, SPHERE,
Board Member Founder's Hall and Women's Center; Rob Ellis, Managing Partner of Ridgefield Capital
Asset Management; Rudy Marconi, Ridgefield First Selectman; and Erin McMurray, Director of Sourcing,
Wings Unlimited and BGCR Board Member.

As the Club’s Youth of the Year, Chris, a Ridgefield High School Senior and longtime Club member, will
receive the Club’s Ralph B. Crouchley $1,500 college scholarship. “Chris is a true example of a
commendable young man and is a role model amongst his peers and younger Club members. Chris is an
advocate for the Club, always encouraging new members to join, and explaining to current members
everything the Club has to offer. The Youth of the Year program encourages Club members to reach their
full potential by achieving academic success, leading healthy lifestyles and contributing to their
communities, and Chris is a shining example of this. We are so proud of him,” said Mike Flynn, Executive
Director at the Boys & Girls Club.

Chris Cozens has been attending the Boys & Girls Club since 1st grade, and has been an active member
ever since, participating in every program the Club offers. Upon entering high school, Chris emerged as a
leader and a role model for younger members. Chris is best known for his countless hours of community
service at the Club, totaling over 1,000 volunteer hours. He is a two- time recipient of the Clubs
Outstanding Leadership Award for his work ethic and dedication, and has previously won the Youth
Volunteer of the Year award for his endless commitment to the Club. Chris has participated in the Club’s
high school character and leadership program- the Keystone Club, the Leaders-In- Training program, the
Junior Staff program, and as a Camp Counselor. During the school year, he serves as the Keystone Clubs
President, is a coach for the Club’s sports leagues, and is a key Power Hour Junior Staff member in the
Club’s Homework Room.

“Obstacles have been a recurring part of my life and the Club has helped me overcome them. The Club
showed me new horizons that I never thought would be available to me. The Club has given me a new
family that cared about my well-being,” said Chris.
In April, Chris will compete against other Boys & Girls Club members for the Connecticut Youth of the
Year title and a $2,500 college scholarship. Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can receive. Chris is among hundreds of local Youth of the Year winners across the
country recognized by Boys & Girls Clubs of America for his sound character, leadership skills and
willingness to give back to the community.

Youth of the Year honorees are shining examples and living proof that great futures start at Boys & Girls
Clubs. Noteworthy BGCR finalists for the 2018 Youth of the Year include: Chloe Adda, Sarah Armstrong,
Stephanie Bittick, Catherine D’Jay, Sean Seavy, Nicole Bottone, Patrick Browne, Allie Cauchon, Stevie
Conner, Julia Lawler, Nikita Licudine, Sam Klotz, and Michael Ryan.

Website Manager

Boys & Girls Club of Ridgefield

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8

Mar, 2018

BGCR Names 2018 Youth of the Year

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