As the Boys & Girls Clubs of Indian River County commemorates a quarter-century of empowering young people, it has named Jeanna A. as its 2025 Youth of the Year, an honor recognizing exceptional leadership, academic achievement, and dedication to serving others.
Jeanna, a senior at Sebastian River High School, stands out as a beacon of resilience and ambition. Boasting a 4.50 GPA and a rank of 21st in a class of nearly 400, she is on track to earn an International Baccalaureate diploma. A National Honor Society member, Senior Class Representative, and Captain of the cheerleading team, Jeanna balances academic rigor with extracurricular leadership.
Her influence reaches far beyond school walls. For over six years, Jeanna has been a cornerstone of the Sebastian Club, taking on prominent roles in Torch Club and Keystone Club, including serving as President.
In 2021, she stepped up as a Junior Staff member, mentoring younger Club members and peers. In the broader community, she volunteers with Peer 2 Peer at Fellsmere Elementary and coaches youth cheerleading programs, consistently uplifting those around her.
Set to become a first-generation college student, Jeanna will attend the University of Miami next fall, armed with over $75,000 in scholarships. She aspires to a career in athletic training or occupational therapy, driven by a passion for helping others.
“As Youth of the Year, my mission is to make a difference in children’s lives,” Jeanna said. “I hope my story inspires other kids to grow and change the world someday—just like I plan to do.”
Jeanna’s leadership was recently showcased when she threw the ceremonial first pitch at the Jackie Robinson Celebration Game alongside United Way, highlighting her role as a community role model.
For 25 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of Indian River County has been a haven for children and teens, fostering growth through programs in academics, leadership, health, arts, and workforce readiness.
Serving over 700 youth annually across Vero Beach, Sebastian, and Fellsmere, BGCIRC holds a 4-star Charity Navigator rating and Candid’s Platinum Seal of Transparency.
Recognized as a United Way Agency of Excellence (2013, 2021), Organization of the Year by 2-1-1 Helpline, and among Charity Navigator’s Top 10 Charities to Watch, BGCIRC drives measurable impact, boosting graduation rates, academic achievement, and positive behavior while reducing youth crime, per a Florida TaxWatch study.
For more information, visit www.bgcirc.org.
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