Anajiah Graham, Palm Beach County Youth of the Year, is proud to be a Boys & Girls Clubs member.
Join our family of readers for as little as $5 per month and support local, unbiased journalism.
Already have an account? Log in to continue. Otherwise, follow the link below to join.
Please log in to continue |
BELLE GLADE – Anajiah Graham, Palm Beach County Youth of the Year, is proud to be a Boys & Girls Clubs member.
At the March 31 dedication for the Smith & Moore Family Teen Center in Belle Glade, Graham explained, “Growing up in Belle Glade was not easy.
“According to research, Belle Glade is one of the lowest economic cities in Florida. Truth is, wherever there is a lack of resources – jobs and other essential needs not being met – that means potential high crime rate, high teen pregnancy and low graduation rate.
“However, what Google may not highlight are the champions who rise and refuse to be a negative statistic. That’s me, a young woman who is determined to be a positive influence on other youth in the world.”
Graham, and 18-year-old high school senior, said she was 6 years old when she joined “the club.” At first she didn’t know what to expect.
“I will never forget Mrs. Pringle. She was the club staff who went beyond the call of duty to ensure that each club member felt safe and had everything they needed. One time when my mother could not afford for me to attend a school dance, it was Mrs. Pringle who sacrificed her personal finance to make sure that I attended the dance. This made me realize the club is more than just a physical building; it was a place of refuge.
“Looking back on my club experience, I have learned so much about myself: confidence, awareness and most of all, integrity. Those three are the determining factors as I complete my senior year of high school. After high school, I plan to attend college,” she said, adding she has been accepted to 11 universities.
“I will be the first in my family to attend college,” Graham said. She plans to study Political Science.
“I am fortunate to be a club kid. That is why the club is my second home,” she explained. “I will forever be grateful for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County and I know with their formula for impact, they will continue to make a difference in the lives of youth for generations to come.
“Thank you all for this wonderful building!” she added.
