Lauren Morrison, a 6-year member of Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County has been named the Youth of the Year for the state of Oklahoma by Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA).  Youth of the Year winners across the country are recognized by Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) for sound character, leadership skills and willingness to give back to the community.

Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can receive. The title recognizes outstanding contributions to a member’s family, school, community and Boys & Girls Club, as well as personal challenges and obstacles overcome.

Morrison has worked hard to overcome an early childhood diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy.  Doctors once thought she would never walk, now Morrison routinely competes in Karate Tournaments – many sponsored by the Memorial Park Boys and Girls Club. 

Morrison credits the Boys & Girls Club of Oklahoma County with preparing her to face the future. “My club has prepared me to achieve my future goals.  I thank the club for helping guide and push me in the right direction.  As I start preparing for the future, I will use many of the traits I have learned through the Boys & Girls Club.”   While a member of SMART Girls, a gender-specific adolescence awareness program, Morrison learned how to deal with and discuss everyday situations and feel comfortable with herself.  As a Keystone Club leader, Morrison has learned how to organize activities and “give back” to the community.  Keystone Club is part of Boys & Girls Clubs Character & Leadership Development Core Service Area, and directs members to become future leaders. 

Morrison is a fluent and enthusiastic sign language interpreter.  She has shared her knowledge with many Club Members.  These sessions help members understand that there are few barriers that can’t be overcome.  Morrison is pursuing a career as a sign language interpreter.