Announcing Christopher
Fonseca, 2025 Youth of
the Year!
Christopher Fonseca’s Teen Services journey began during his freshman year, coinciding with the early stages of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sonoma Valley and Teen Services merger. Witnessing the evolution of the program alongside his own growth, Christopher has embraced every challenge and opportunity with unwavering determination and enthusiasm. His journey with us has not only nurtured his confidence but has also ignited a passion for leadership within him. Christopher’s ability to find his voice and lead by example has made him a respected figure among his peers and staff. From participating in group discussions to organizing community service projects, Christopher has consistently demonstrated his commitment to making a positive impact within our program and beyond. With a bright future ahead, Christopher is poised to continue his journey as a leader, leaving a lasting legacy of empowerment and positivity at Teen Services.
What is Youth of the Year?
Youth of the Year takes place in November and is our premier youth recognition program for Club members. We recognize Members of the Year from each of our locations, along with the Carole Downing Volunteer award, and the Athlete of the Year Award. Our teen finalists, chosen from our Teen Services members, will share their personal stories of hard work and success. One of our teen finalists will be chosen by a selection of panelists to represent BGCSV as the Youth of the Year.
The 2024 Youth of the Year event welcomes a new sponsor in the Ted Cutler Memorial Scholarship. The Ted Cutler Memorial Scholarship was established in 2022 by Ted’s wife, Gemma Gallovich, in memory of Ted and his generous spirit. During his life, Ted gave generously to many Sonoma charities throughout the years knowing his dollars would have way more impact within this small community than anywhere else. It is in this spirit that the Ted Cutler Memorial Scholarship is established to positively impact the lives of teens from Sonoma Valley.
Who Are our Youth of the Year Candidates?
We recognize a Member of the Month at each of our BGCSV school sites, as well as a teen Member of the Month. From these 12 teens, four of them are selected to be Youth of the Year candidates. Youth of the Year candidates are high school students who have shown a significant arc of change. Many of them face tremendous personal challenges at home and school; their struggles and accomplishments often aren’t known or acknowledged outside of the Club. On this very important evening, we honor their commitment to overcoming adversity to live a positive, triumphant life.
Youth of the Year Promotes & Celebrates:
- Service to the Club, community, and family
- Academic success
- Strong moral character
- Life goals
- Poise and public speaking ability
Past Youth of the Year Recipients
2024 Youth of the Year: Esmeralda Tellez-Ferreyra
2023 Youth of the Year: Victoria Hernandez Padilla
2022 Youth of the Year: Jennifer Tellez
2021 Youth of the Year: Ema Camarena
2020 Youth of the Year: Alejandra Renteria
2019 Youth of the Year: Yurhitizia Santiago
2018 Youth of the Year: Dulce Mexicano
2017 Youth of the Year: Angel Tinoco
2016 Youth of the Year: Edwin Reyes
2015 Youth of the Year: Maribel Campos
2014 Youth of the Year: Francisco Chavez
2013 Youth of the Year: Yecenia Vargas
2012 Youth of the Year: Gene Truong
2011 Youth of the Year: Jessica Contreras
2010 Youth of the Year: Manuel Heredia
For more information on the Youth of the Year program or Teen Services, please email Eric Gonzalez at [email protected].
To view photos from past Youth of the Year events, please click here.