Woburn Student Named Finalist in 'Youth of the Year' Competition

A Woburn student has been named a finalist in the Massachusetts Alliance of Boys & Girls Club’s Youth of the Year.

Calvin Knowles got the chance to meet Gov. Charlie Baker, who also met with the other three finalists in the competition recognized them for their accomplishments in their clubs and communities.

“It was a privilege to meet with outstanding young men and women, each of whom has served his or her community with distinction and together represent the spirit of service of the Massachusetts Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs,” Baker said.

The finalists also got to tour the State House building and met with their hometown legislators. In addition, each winner received a free laptop.

For 67 years, the Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year competition served as the premier recognition program for club members. It honors teen club members who demonstrate moral character, responsibility to home and family, community and club service, scholastic achievement and diversity of school activities, ability to set goals, poise and public speaking. In addition, the judges consider any significant obstacles the youth had to overcome. The selection process includes essay writing, an oral presentation and an interview.

In Massachusetts, each local club winner goes on to the statewide competition. This year’s intensive, two-day event was held in June, with 38 young men and women from across the state competing. A panel of judges made up of leaders in business, nonprofits, and government evaluated the contestants, and selected the finalists.