Across Native Boys & Girls Club communities, a powerful group of Future Ready graduates and AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers are turning service into lasting impact. From Oklahoma to Arizona, North Carolina to Kansas, these young leaders: Lauren Y., Kyle S., Chellena “Chen,” Brandy F., Josh D., Aiyana “KiBo” T., and Payton D. share a common thread: a deep commitment to their communities, cultures and futures.
Lauren Y.’s journey at Boys & Girls Club of Tahlequah in Oklahoma, reflects resilience and growth. While completing her degree from Northeastern State University, she dedicated two years to strengthening youth programs as an AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer, expanding opportunities for Native youth, and building her own confidence as a leader, all while balancing motherhood and family life. Similarly, Kyle S. transformed service into measurable impact at Boys & Girls Club of Adair County Schools in Oklahoma, raising over $50,000 through community partnerships and fundraising efforts. He also used his voice to represent Indigenous perspectives on VISTA panels as he graduated from Northeastern State University. Kyle is not stepping away from service instead he is continuing his AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer journey.
For high school graduate Chellena “Chen,” the T’iisyaakin Residential Dorm Extension Site at Boys & Girls Club of Flagstaff became a foundation for self-discovery. Through Youth of the Year and leadership programs, she found her voice, advocated for her peers, and will be pursuing her passion for music with confidence and purpose at Eastern Arizona College. Brandy F.’s story from Boys & Girls Club of the Haliwa-Saponi Tribe in Halifax County, North Carolina reflects a lifelong commitment to leadership. From after-school programs to serving as Miss Haliwa-Saponi, she turned her platform into action leading community initiatives and becoming the first to hold every princess title in her Tribe’s history. Now as a high school graduate from Halifax County Early College, Brandy will pursue her higher education with faith and confidence.
Josh D. exemplified perseverance and service during his time at Halifax County Early College. Despite living with a disability, he has embraced leadership through volunteer firefighting, community outreach, and daily acts of kindness. His determination shows that being Future Ready means rising above challenges and leading with heart as he prepares for college. At Boys & Girls Club of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, Aiyana “KiBo” T.’s leadership within the nation highlights the importance of community-centered values. As President of the Firekeeper Youth Council, she has led initiatives rooted in service, honoring traditions while guiding the next generation. KiBo stands tall as she takes her next steps toward college and carries with her the invaluable experiences from the Club.
Payton D.’s journey in Maine reflects the power of mentorship and cultural grounding. Through 13 years of service, tutoring, and leadership at Boys & Girls Clubs of Border Towns, she has uplifted younger youth while honoring Mi’kmaq teachings that emphasize respect, responsibility, and community care. Graduating from Presque Isle High School Payton in Future Ready and position to succeed during her time at college and beyond.
Collectively, these stories illustrate what it truly means to be Future Ready. Each graduate has built life and work readiness skills through service, cultural connection, and leadership opportunities provided by Boys & Girls Clubs. They are not only prepared for college and careers, they are prepared to lead with purpose, uplift others and create stronger communities.
Their journeys remind us that when young people are supported, empowered, and rooted in culture, they do more than succeed, they inspire change. Continue to read the 2026 Future Ready Graduates Stories.
