Olivia F. is runner-up in Ohio Youth of the Year competition

TOLEDO, Ohio – Boys & Girls Clubs of Toledo’s Olivia F. is runner-up in the Ohio State Youth of the Year competition.

Olivia represented the Boys & Girls Clubs of Toledo at the statewide competition at the Columbus Athletic Club this week, which included an interview and a public speech.

“Olivia is an outstanding example of our youth,” said Dominga Grace, Boys & Girls Clubs of Toledo program director. “She leads through her actions and is committed to serving her community. She is an empathetic leader and encourages youth to embrace their identity and be their authentic selves.”

Youth of the Year is Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s signature leadership award. The honor began in 1947 and includes local, state, regional and national competitions.

Olivia’s runner-up finish includes a $7,500 scholarship from Boys & Girls Clubs of Ohio, which she plans to use to study education at Bowling Green State University this fall.

During her time in Columbus, Ford visited the Ohio Statehouse and met State Sen. Paula Hicks-Hudson. She also received proclamations from State Rep. Michele Grim and State Sen. Theresa Gavarone.

A senior at Cardinal Stritch High School, Ford began her time with the Clubs as a volunteer at the Ottawa River Boys & Girls Club. She said she enjoyed spending time with the younger members so much that she far surpassed her required volunteer hours for graduation.

At the suggestion of Senior Club Director Hannah Fox-Lu, Olivia interviewed for a Teen Employment Corps junior staff position at the East Toledo Club. In that role, she mentors younger members and assists adult staff with implementing youth programs.

At Cardinal Stritch, Ford is part of the student council, the National Exchange Club and on the volleyball team. In her final season, the Toledo Area Athletic Conference recognized Ford as its Player of the Year. She is also a youth volleyball coach.