ADRIAN — The Boys & Girls Club of Lenawee recently received the Champion for Youth award from Boys & Girls Clubs of America for their advocacy on behalf of Michigan’s youth.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Club Advocacy Engagement Recognition Program recognizes the advocacy work of local chapters, with an emphasis on impact, creativity and innovation. Youth Champion recognition is given to the top 10% of clubs nationwide.

“Clubs like ours have a unique role as community leaders in providing valuable afterschool programs to our country’s youth that enable them to achieve great futures,” Sara Herriman, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Lenawee, said in a news release. “We are wholly committed to raising the visibility of the needs of the youth in our community, especially the ones who need us most, and show what we can accomplish with the support of our elected officials and our community.”   

Over the past year, Boys & Girls Club of Lenawee youth and staff engaged in advocacy efforts to elevate the needs of local youth. The club hosted multiple tours for lawmakers and key decisionmakers at the local, state, and federal levels, providing firsthand insight into the impact of club programs. Additionally, representatives from the club met with state legislators in Lansing during the annual Boys & Girls Clubs of Michigan Advocacy Days.

“Boys & Girls Clubs champion opportunities for all youth, equipping young people with the experiences and tools they need to succeed,” Herriman said. “Our advocacy isn’t just a one-day event. We are raising youth voices every single day, to ensure top issues and solutions impacting young people are prioritized in our community, our state and at the national level.”