Local Clubs select a Youth of the Year, who advances through regional and national competitions, showcasing their achievements and aspirations. The program highlights the significant impact of Boys & Girls Clubs in shaping the lives of youth and preparing them for future success, while celebrating the remarkable accomplishments of these young individuals. Additionally, it provides scholarships to support their educational pursuits.  

“Cinnaire’s sponsorship of the Youth of the Year program is about more than just generous support – it’s a powerful statement about their belief in young people and their potential to lead,” said Tauzzari Robinson, Executive Director at Michigan Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs. “Their commitment helps create the platform for our youth to be seen, heard, and celebrated. We’re incredibly grateful to Cinnaire for standing with us, investing in the next generation, and for helping to shape brighter futures across Michigan.”  

Boys & Girls Club leaders, staff and board members recently gathered in Lansing to celebrate the outstanding winners from clubs across the state. We extend our congratulations to all honorees, and a special round of applause to Jayla from the Boys & Girls Club of Flint who was named the 2025 State of Michigan Youth of the Year. Jayla now advances to represent Michigan at the Midwest Regional competition – and we’re cheering her on every step of the way. 

Empowering the Next Generation 

Behind every Youth of the Year finalist is a story of strength – and judges who take the time to listen, encourage, and honor each young person’s unique journey.  

We’re especially proud that our Chief Impact Officer, Jennifer Everhart, served as one of this year’s judges, alongside an outstanding panel including Matt Cook from Lake Michigan Credit Union, Jayshona Hicks from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, Erin Skene-Pratt from Michigan After School Partnership, and Meghan Hanley from Comcast. Each judge brought compassion, insight and deep respect for the youth they met. 

Jennifer reflected on the event, sharing “serving as a judge for Youth of the Year was a moving and meaningful experience. Each young person came into the room with such grace, purpose and courage – sharing their stories with honesty that was both powerful and inspiring. I was struck by their resilience, their sense of responsibility to their communities, and their determination to lead with heart. It reminded me that leadership isn’t defined by age or title – it’s defined by authenticity, and these youth are living proof of that. I left not only impressed, but genuinely hopeful about the future.”   

The judging panel plays a vital role in the program, helping youth feel seen, valued, and empowered as they share their hopes and lived experiences. 

Brent Seelmeyer, Boys & Girls Clubs of America Director, Organizational Development, recognized Jennifer’s contributions to the event, noting, “Jennifer was a welcome addition to the Boys & Girls Club Michigan Youth of the Year judging panel. She had the challenging task of evaluating 14 incredible teen leaders representing young people across the great state of Michigan. Jennifer was thoughtful and insightful in her work as she got to know each candidate’s personal growth journey, what matters most to them, and how they would advocate for all youth. We are so grateful for Jennifer’s approach to listening and recognizing the potential in our teens. Volunteers like her are inspiring for our current and future leaders.” 

Committed to Youth Success 

At Cinnaire, we believe in the potential of every young person – and we’re proud to stand alongside those who make this work possible. Our commitment to youth education and leadership aligns closely with the mission of Boys & Girls Clubs: to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens.  

At the celebration in Lansing, our own Jennifer Calery was named the 2025 Board Member of the Year by the Michigan Alliance of Boys and Girls Club. As chair for both the Boys and Girls Club of Alpena and Michigan Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs Board of Directors, Jen’s leadership, vision, and heart have left an indelible mark on youth and families in Alpena and across Michigan. At Cinnaire, we celebrate changemakers like Jen who embody our purpose – empowering communities and creating opportunities for those who need it most.