Sweetness Tilson named Youth of the Year
The Boys & Girls Club of Fond du Lac is proud to announce Sweetness Tilson as its 2022-23 Youth of the Year.
Youth of the Year is the Club’s signature effort to foster a new generation of leaders, fully prepared to live and lead in a diverse, global and integrated world economy. In the 21st-century world and workplace, leadership skills such as communication, goal-setting and teamwork are essential for everyone – especially young people preparing to meet the challenges of adolescence and adulthood. The Youth of the Year award is the most prestigious honor that can be earned at the Club, and the winner must go through an application and interview process to be considered. The award is earned, not just given out, as the Youth of the Year plays an integral role in representing the organization as a whole throughout their year-long reign.
Tilson, a junior at Fond du Lac High School, has been actively involved in the Boys & Girls Club for the past six years. She is currently an employee of the Club as well, working closely with younger Club members as a program aide. Tilson is interested in attending college to further her education and ultimately pursue a career in teaching or criminal justice after she graduates high school. When asked what the Club means to her, Tilson said, “Club is like a second home. It has taught me so much that I am thankful for and my experiences here have impacted who I am as a person. I have created many memories and relationships, and developed skills that I will carry with me throughout the rest of my life.”
Reflecting on the Boys & Girls Club values (belonging, growth, responsibility, respect, and safety), Tilson provided a great example of how she lives by these values at Club and in the community. She said, “I am a role model always willing to help Club staff and youth, and I am confident in my ability to grow.” Tilson also enjoys getting involved whenever there is an opportunity to give back; she is a member of the Keystone Club and has volunteered at various community events such as Juneteenth, Walk for Alzheimer’s, Festival Foods Turkey Trot, and Band Booster events as she has been playing the baritone since 5th grade.
“Sweetness is going to be a fantastic Youth of the Year. She has faced a lot of adversity, yet continues to see the positive in every situation. Her determination to succeed in life as well as her enthusiasm to bring out the best in everyone around her is both admirable and contagious. I personally can’t wait to see what Sweetness accomplishes over the next year, and what the future has in store for her. I am confident she will do great things!” said Tiffany Heim, director of resource development for the Boys & Girls Club.
Tilson believes that what makes her a great Youth of the Year is that she is a leader who is confident in both herself and her values. She shared that she has learned how to effectively communicate with peers and staff, and is grateful for the supportive relationships she has built at the Boys & Girls Club. “I’ve loved staying involved in Club as I’ve become older and I am very excited for the opportunity to represent my Club as the 2022-23 Youth of the Year,” said Tilson.
Since 2014, Marian University has been graciously awarding the Club’s Youth of the Year winner with a four-year scholarship to attend the university if they wish to do so. We are incredibly grateful for their partnership and wish Sweetness a successful year in this leadership role. We look forward to being by her side as her bright future unfolds! For more information about Club programs and how to become a Boys & Girls Club member, click HERE.