March 1, 2000
Elramy named Youth of the Year by Boys & Girls Club
By Carol South
Herald contributing writer
Hearing herself described as enthusiastic, responsible and a role model for others was not what Mae Elramy would have expected anyone to say about her a year ago.
But what a difference a year makes.
Elramy, 18, was named the Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year at the Club's second annual Volunteer Appreciation and Member Awards Night last Thursday at the club. Quite a change from one year ago, when the high school drop out saw doors closed all around her and was struggling with personal problems. Looking to find direction in her life, she took a part-time summer job at the Boys & Girls Club, a hangout she remembered from her younger days.
Through her initiative and enthusiasm, she parlayed the part-time job into a full-time position. Elramy also enrolled in the club's Project Save Alternative Education program and began seeing life a different way, as opportunities instead of limits. Just receiving her high school degree last week, she now has a career that is her passion: helping other youth find their way in life.
"The Boys & Girls Club has done so much for me," said Elramy, who teaches in the club's Smart Moves and Nike Challenge programs and is involved in administration and fund-raising.
"I don't think I would have graduated from high school without them. The high energy here keeps me motivated. I found my place here."
Also keeping her motivated as a mentor and friend was Meredith Wells, director of the Boys & Girls Club, who took Elramy under her wing and made sure she kept studying, kept a positive attitude and kept trying. With all Elramy's progress, recommending her for Youth of the Year Award, the Boys & Girls Club's highest award, was an easy next step for Wells. Elramy will also compete in a regional competition for Youth of the Year and could go on to a state and national competitions.
"Mae's a great example of what the Boys & Girls Club is all about," Wells said. "She got a hand up, not a handout."
The Awards Dinner also highlighted the special talents of other club members, giving out six special scholarships to, for example, an avid basketball player who received a scholarship to a summer basketball camp and an aspiring singer received tuition assistance for the Northwestern Michigan College Chorale.
Recognizing volunteers is also an important part of this annual awards night. With dozens of volunteers who help with everything from special programs to chaperoning Friday night dances, the volunteers provide the backbone of the programs.
"Volunteers really enhance our programs, we rely on them heavily," Wells said. "We appreciate their dedication and commitment."
Lisa Bracey has been volunteering at the club for just three months, but already she has made an impact. Recognized for her efforts in working with the Smart Girls program, which works with girls ages 6-12 to teach them self-esteem, Bracey found all the reward she needed before being recognized.
"When I came in tonight, two girls came up and gave me a hug," Bracey said. "That was all the recognition I need."