Local Teen Named Boys & Girls Club Oregon State Youth of the Year

Jason will travel to the Regional Conference in Anaheim, California in July where he will be competing for a $10,000 scholarship.

Jason Rogers Photo: Boys's and Girl's Club

(SALEM) - Jason Rogers is a true example of an extraordinary young man. At age 16, he has been selected as the Oregon State Youth of the Year on Friday, April 6th at the State Event. Boys & Girls Clubs from across Oregon sent a representative to compete in the prestigious event.

Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can receive. The title recognizes outstanding contributions to a member’s family, school, community and Boys & Girls Club. This program was founded 60 years ago through the generosity of the Reader’s Digest Foundation.

Jason is a junior at North Salem High School. He first joined the Club in first grade when his grandma paid for his $5 membership. He hasn’t stopped coming to the Club since. Jason has recently been involved in many leadership roles at the Club, including his role as the Keystone Club President. The Keystone Club is a group of high school students who focus on service to the Club and Community, Leadership Development and Education & Career Exploration among other subjects.

“Jason has courageously overcome difficult circumstances to serve his community and develop his leadership skills,” said Gweneth Bruey, a teacher at North Salem High School. Jason will travel to the Regional Conference in Anaheim, California in July where he will be competing for a $10,000 scholarship.

The five regional winners will travel to Washington, D.C. in September 2007 to compete for the title of Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s National Youth of the Year. The National Youth of the Year receives an additional $15,000 college scholarship and is installed by the President in the Oval Office ceremony.

The Boys & Girls Club has played an integral role in Oregon, providing daily activities and services to thousands of young people in grades 1-12 throughout Oregon. The daily and varied activities at Boys & Girls Club youth centers are designed to build self-esteem among youth by providing opportunities for success. For more information on the Salem Club call 503-581-7383.