On June 10th, the YMCA of Central Florida gathered past and present Teen Achievers to celebrate the program’s 27th anniversary.
Launched in 1980, Teen Achievers is a free program that was designed to support the academic and professional success of middle school and high school students in the Central Florida community. Teen Achievers relies on a network of volunteers who donate their time and energy into mentoring and serving as a positive role model for students in the program. These Adult Achievers provide academic support to the students and assist with career planning and college preparation so that each student is on the path to reach their fullest potential.
At this year’s inaugural banquet, the theme was “Continuing the Legacy.” U.S. Diplomat Calvin Hayes served as the keynote speaker for the celebration. Hayes, who grew up in Orlando and attended Jones High School, graduated from the YMCA of Central Florida’s Teen Achievers program in 2006 and credits the Y with setting him up for success. The Florida A&M alumnus has gone on to serve his community through public service, working for the Department of State, United States Congress, Florida House of Representatives, and City of Orlando.
Local high school seniors who were awarded with college scholarships at this year’s banquet included:
· Jania Lowe
· Kaelyn Spencer
· Angel Ortiz
· Denzelle Turner
· Kiara Fortillien
· Isaiah Pratt
· Aunasia Tuner
The YMCA of Central Florida is proud to have worked alongside and served these seniors and is excited to watch their success stories unfold over the coming years.