HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Thursday, December 8th the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hutchinson will host its annual Youth of the Year Banquet. Three finalists will compete for the title of 2023 Hutchinson Youth of the Year. Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can receive. The winner will advance to the statewide competition.
The candidates this year include Noah Khokhar, Zion Burgess, and Joe Martinez. Thanks to Heartland Credit Union each runner-up will receive a $500 scholarship and the winner will receive a $1,000 scholarship.
NOAH KHOKHAR: Noah is a senior at Hutchinson High School and has been a Club member for 2 years. Noah plays football for Hutchinson High School and is active in their FCA. Noah enjoys being able to connect with Club youth and getting to know them personally. He hopes to make a positive impact in Club members’ lives.
ZION BURGESS: Zion is a junior at Hutchinson High School and has been a Club member for 5 years. Zion plays football for Hutchinson High School and is active in Club programs such as Passport 2 Manhood, Keystone Club, and Road Code. Zion enjoys helping kids break out of their shells and encouraging them to have a voice.
JOE MARTINEZ: Joe is a junior at Nickerson High School and has been a Club member since elementary school. Joe has a passion for music and poetry and is involved in several choral groups and Nickerson’s school musical. Joe enjoys encouraging youth to be their true selves and making them feel safe and understood.
“The Youth of the Year competitors are living proof of the power of the Boys & Girls Club experience,” said Lance Patterson, Chief Executive Officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hutchinson. “The young men participating this year are outstanding Club members who are engaged in their schools and community. Each one is a role model for our Club members.”
Guests may RSVP for this free event at bgchutch.com. Youth of the Year will be held at The Crystal Ballroom at The Burt, 3 W Ave. B, at 6:00 PM on Thursday, December 8. The night will feature a live auction and raffle. Donors need not be present to win the raffle.