Glen Cove Boys & Girls Club

Junior Youth of the Month, nine-year-old Aylin is a third‑grader with a passion for learning, especially math. Inspired by her current teacher Nicole Mazza, Aylin would like to become an elementary school teacher as well when she grows up. Her favorite book is The Smart Cookie, by Jory John and illustrated by Pete Oswald. Aylin expresses creativity through music and art by playing the clarinet and drawing. She is honing her artistic skills as an active member of the Club’s evening Art Club. Aylin first joined the Club through the Summer program two years ago where she discovered her love for field trips. Outings to Jump Town USA and the local bowling alley remain favorite memories. Today, she is not only a daily attendee after school but is a role model to younger members. Aylin makes sure to complete her homework before tackling puzzles in the Games Room or reading books in the learning center, or eagerly assisting staff. Known for her reliability, staff members consistently credit Aylin for being responsible and trust her to help when needed. Asked if she would like to serve as a group leader when she comes of age, Aylin’s face lit up as she responded with an emphatic “yes” before adding “I love the Club. It is my second home.”

For Senior Youth of the Month, Anderson O., this marks his third recognition, having previously earned the title in 2021 and 2023. Now a fourteen-year-old ninth grader, Anderson is fully immersed in high school. “I am absolutely loving high school. It has been a great learning experience—not just academically, but in so many other ways. It feels open, free, and I’m really enjoying the independence,” he shared. A proud Club member since first grade, Anderson is now in his ninth year at the Club. “I’m going to keep coming here for as long as I can. I love this place; it is my second home,” said Anderson whose ultimate goal is to win the Club’s highly coveted Youth of the Year Title before he graduates from High School. This year, he’s taking on more responsibility as a teen volunteer, with plans to join the Summer Youth Employment program and ultimately grow into a paid Group Leader role. Anderson has long aspired to become an architect and has already begun exploring college opportunities. He has a strong affinity for math and art, enjoys playing soccer, and is a thoughtful reader. He recently finishing Maus by Art Spiegelman, a story about the Holocaust that deeply moved him.