Senior Courtni Wallace has been named “Youth of the Year” by the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Charlotte.

Wallace received this honor in March at the annual Great Futures Breakfast at the Myers Park Presbyterian Church.

Wallace, a member of the Belmont Avenue branch of the Boys & Girls Clubs, was recognized for her character, work and exemplary leadership as a member.

“It was the place where I became a better person,” Wallace said. “The club is a safe environment to take my mind off my troubles. It has helped me academically, physically and emotionally, and allowed me to blossom into the person I am today.”

The purpose of these clubs is to help at-risk youth stay on the straight and narrow path to success.

Wallace has been a part of several community service projects sponsored by the clubs, one of which included help feeding the homeless.

She now advances to compete on the regional and national levels for scholarships.