Delaware Youth Of The Year 2022
Orlando Rider has been named the George Krupanski Jr. 2022
Youth of the Year among seven other finalists. The Youth of the Year title is a
prestigious honor bestowed upon an exemplary young person in recognition of
leadership, service, academic excellence and dedication to live a healthy lifestyle. Now
in its 75th year, the Youth of the Year program honors our nation’s most awe-inspiring
young people on their path to great futures and encourages all kids to lead, succeed
and inspire.
“We are very proud of Orlando and all that he has accomplished during his time at the
Club” says John Wellons, President and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware. “I
know that he will go on to do great things, and we are incredibly excited to watch him
represent Delaware at regionals.”
Currently a senior at Freire Charter School, Orlando will attend Delaware State
University this fall to pursue a degree in criminal justice. Having worked in the club
through the Summer Youth employment program, Orlando was quickly promoted to
Junior Youth Development Professional. He is looking forward to having his own
classroom this year for Summer Fun Club. Orlando credits his grandmother, time as a
club kid and experience through the employment program for making him who he is
today. “The Club holds a special place in my heart and I know I would not be the same
person without it in my life” he says.
During the Youth of the Year Gala, Orlando also received the Best Essay award for the
essay portion of his application. With over 180 volunteer hours this past year and his
dedication to his education, he has proven that he has what it takes to represent
Delaware at the regional competition.
“Orlando has been coming to the Club for over ten years. I’ve watched him become an
incredibly confident and strong young man. Our staff and kids are very proud of him!”
says Amanda Alexandar, Director of the Clarence Fraim Boys & Girls Club. “He’s
excited to represent Delaware at the regional Youth of the Year competition. He
understands how big of a deal this is, and is thankful for the opportunity.”
Orlando will now go on to compete for the title of Northeast Regional Youth of the Year
in June and an additional $20,000 in college scholarship. Five regional winners will
advance to Washington, D.C. in September 2022, to compete for the title of Boys &
Girls Clubs of America’s National Youth of the Year. The National Youth of the Year will
receive an additional scholarship of $50,000 and will have the opportunity to meet with
the President of the United States in the Oval Office.