On February 12, 2008, outstanding youth leaders from 12 of the Boys & Girls Clubs in King County spoke candidly about what the Boys & Girls Club means to them.  Representing the Wallingford Club as its Youth of the Year was Hashim Elberier, a decade-long member that has participated in the free afterschool program, athletics, Torch Club, Counselor-in-Training, and currently, Keystone Club.

The Youth of the Year event, held annually at Benaroya Hall, is the premier program of Boys & Girls Clubs across the nation, and Hashim endured a lengthy interview process with panel judges before giving his speech before an audience of more than 300 people.  At the end of the afternoon, he was awarded the first-runner up prize, making the staff and community members attending on behalf of WBGC very proud.

"Hashim is an amazing young man.  He's professional, quick with a joke and kind to others," said Adam Monda, senior program director at the Club.  "Hashim is a very talented jazz musician and we're very proud of him here at the Club.  His future is very bright."

Hashim was chosen to represent Wallingford because of his dedication to Club service and his general mentorship of younger members.  "Hashim naturally guides, mentors, and leads without expectation," Monda said.  "He understands that senior members of the Club are looked up to and serve as role models."

"Hashim is the teen who will break up a fight, deter gossip, and have a good attitude about working hard.  He is not perfect, but he tries hard to live and act with integrity.  It is this kind of behavior that is so powerful for his peers and younger members to see.  When they observe a kid just like them striving to do what is right, it makes an incredible impact on how they view their own actions.  It empowers them to live better.  This example is even more effective coming from a teen like Hashim than it would ever be coming from any of our staff members.  He is a very positive force in the lives of everyone here.  That is why we love having him at our Club."

In honor of his achievement, Hashim received a shopping spree at Macy's and a GET scholarship, which was increased when he won first runner-up. 

February 2008