KAUA'I: Boys & Girls Club Youths of the Year

Lawmakers honored two youths from Kauai for their commitment and dedication to the Boys & Girls Club of Kaua‘i and being named 2012 Youth of the Year at their respective clubs during a special floor session presentation Thursday, April 5, 2012.

Joseph Camelo, 17, is a senior at Kaua‘i High School and has been a member of the Boys & Girls Club of Kaua‘i – Lihue Club for seven years. He has demonstrated leadership qualities as a dedicated Leader in Training (L.I.T.), a volunteer as a coach for flag football leagues, and a mentor at Wilcox Elementary School afterschool programs.

Tosha Taylor, 16, is a senior at Kapa‘a High School and has been an active member of the Boys & Girls Club of Kaua‘i – Kapa‘a Club for six years. She has served as a positive role model for younger members by maintaining extraordinary character, leadership, dedication, and a positive attitude throughout the years. She is the current President of the L.I.T. program, and assists with afterschool homework sessions as well as drug, alcohol, and tobacco resistance programs.

"We acknowledge and congratulate the Boys & Girls Club for all of their hard work and accomplishments over the years," said Rep. James Kunane Tokioka (District 15 – Wailua Homesteads, Hanamaulu, Lihue, Puhi, Portion of Old Koloa Town, Omao). “With young leaders like Joseph and Tosha, it's obvious that the future of our community is in good hands."

“It is an honor and a privilege to be able to highlight the achievements of our youth,” Rep. Derek S. K. Kawakami (District 14 – Hanalei, Anahola, Kealia, Kapaa, Waipouli) added. “Young individuals like Tosha and Joseph serve as an inspiration and reminder of why we are here.”

“The ability to serve and give back is noble,” Kawakami said, “and in a day and age where peer pressure plays a huge factor in the decisions that our youth make, it is remarkable that these youths have found the ability to rise above the fray to contribute to their community and their fellow students. It takes a village to raise a child and it is with the support of organizations like the Boys & Girls Club and a supportive family structure that allow our youth to shine.”