Club member to Youth of the Year
Hunter is the kind of young person who leaves an impression—not because he demands attention, but because of the quiet strength, warmth, and dependability he brings with him into every room he enters.
As this year’s Youth of the Year for Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield, Hunter is more than a standout Club member—he’s a leader, a friend, a mentor, and a young person with an incredible story.
Earlier this year, Hunter was named Springfield’s 2024 Youth of the Year, earning a $16,000 college scholarship sponsored by BGC Partners in Education. This honor recognizes not just academic excellence, but character, leadership, and a deep commitment to service.
But long before the awards and accolades, Hunter’s story began at the Musgrave Teen Center, where he first came to the Club simply as a place to go after school. Over time, it became much more.
“When I first came to the Club, it was just a place to be after school,” he said. “But eventually, it transformed into a second home where I felt comfortable and could easily make friends.”
Through programs like Keystone Club, a national leadership initiative for teens, Hunter discovered his passion for leadership, service, and creating community. He’s served as both Event Coordinator and Vice President of the group, showing up consistently and encouraging others to do the same.
“Being a leader wasn’t something I thought I’d enjoy,” he said. “But Keystone taught me to lead by example and get involved in my community.”
And behind the scenes, the relationships he’s built with staff have helped him grow in powerful ways.
“Mr. McNelly is someone I look up to as a brother-figure,” he said. “We butt heads sometimes, but he holds me accountable and teaches me to work hard. He’s like a father figure to me, which means a lot since I didn’t have a close relationship with my dad before he passed.”
Today, Hunter is a driven student at Central High School, an award-winning member of the fishing team, and an aspiring commercial pilot. With big dreams on the horizon, he’s focused on sharpening his skills—both in and outside the classroom.
“The lessons I’ve learned at the Club—time management, professionalism, and how to adapt to different situations—will help me succeed in that world,” he said.
This week, Hunter is representing Springfield at the Missouri State Youth of the Year competition in Jefferson City. He’ll join other Youth of the Year honorees from across the state to celebrate the power of Boys & Girls Clubs. Together, they'll meet with legislators, connect with Club peers, and share how Clubs are helping youth build their Great Futures across our region.
Good Luck, Hunter! Your Club family is proud of you and cheering you on every step of the way.
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