TYLER WOODS NAMED BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

YOUTH OF THE YEAR

            Burns, OR, March 28, 2008 – Tyler M. Woods is a true example of an extraordinary young man. At age17, he has just been selected as the Youth of the Year for the Boys & Girls Club of Harney County. Woods is among hundreds of local Youth of the Year winners across the country recognized by Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) for his sound character, leadership skills and willingness to give back to the community.

            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, as well as personal challenges and obstacles overcome. This program was founded over 60 years ago through the generosity of the Reader’s Digest Foundation.

            Woods is the eldest son of a single working mom.  Since the age of 12 Woods has held at least one job sometimes and up to three at one time to help out his family financially.  In addition to his work ethics, he has been an integral part of his family, helping his mom out at home and serving as a positive role model for his younger brother.  Education has always been a priority in Woods life and has led him to the pursuit of a quality college education.  His future plans are to attend the University of Oregon with the goal of earning a doctorate in biochemistry.  Following his education he hopes to become a professor or study cures for addiction.  Woods has also shown his commitment to the community by his hours of service at the Boys & Girls Club, Harney County Library, 4-H, Band, Nadzi-Tsa-Ga Lacrosse Club and others.  In 2006 he completed the Ford Leadership Training program and was a member of the volunteer group that landscaped the Harney County Library.  His commitment to the Boys & Girls Club began as a volunteer then grew into a Jr. Staff member and finally found him as Games room, Playground and Athletics Director.  Woods was one of the first members of the Boys & Girls Club and has been an integral part in the development of the Teen program.

“Tyler is an exceptional mentor for our kids at the Club.  He has shown a level of passion and intelligence that will no doubt result in a very successful future.  We are truly proud of all his accomplishments and wish the very best for him,” said Ruby E. Bottom, Executive Director, Boys & Girls Club of Harney County.

This week, Woods will compete against other Boys & Girls Club members for the Oregon Youth of the Year title and a $1,000 scholarship from Reader’s Digest. If Woods wins at the state level, then he will compete for the title of Pacific Region Youth of the Year and an additional $10,000 scholarship. The five regional winners will advance to Washington, D.C., in September 2008 to compete for the title of BGCA’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 an Oval Office ceremony.