By JC Medina
The Lacey City Council recognized Kurt Cavalier Jr. as the 2025 Washington State Boys & Girls Clubs
Youth of the Year during its regular council meeting on Tuesday, May 20.
The 17-year-old was commended for his academic excellence, athletic achievements and leadership in the community, and will represent Washington in the Pacific Region competition in June.
The Youth of the Year recognition, considered the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can receive, highlights outstanding youths across the country who exemplify leadership, service and resilience.
The recognition follows months of preparation and dedication, including essays, interviews, as well as a speech reflecting his personal journey and aspirations.
“He is a student athlete, playing varsity basketball and earning grades that qualify him to be part of the honor roll. He volunteers in his community, pouring into others as he's been poured into consistently.”
In his address to the council, Cavalier quoted from the film, "Coach Carter", stating, “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.”
He spoke about his experiences growing up as a mixed-race male and how they shaped his passion to become a strong leader and future educator.
“I want to be what I felt was missing: a genuine role model, both in the classroom and on the court,” Cavalier said.
“True leadership is about character and integrity. I am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment where no one feels left behind.”
Cavalier’s commitment extends far beyond academics and athletics. He serves as a Keystone officer, tutor, mentor and youth basketball assistant at the club.
He also advocates for peers facing housing insecurity, food scarcity and other barriers to success.
“Last school year, 5% of our members at Boys & Girls Clubs of Thurston County faced housing insecurities, and 51% qualified for free and reduced lunch,” Cavalier shared.
“I’ve met peers who have experienced homelessness, abuse, even unplanned pregnancies, many who feel unworthy of their educational goals. As an educator, I want to raise awareness about these challenges and work collaboratively to find solutions.”
Treviño emphasized how the club’s teen program helps youths like Cavalier thrive.
“They find community in our teen centers,” she said. “Kurt is such a great example of what the clubs are able to do with youth who walk through those blue doors.”
Council members congratulated Cavalier and took group photos with him to mark the occasion.
Mayor Andy Ryder praised his courage and leadership.
“We know you will represent Washington with strength and pride," he said.
olyhiker
Way to go!
Thursday, May 22, 2025 Report this