Growing up, Kayla struggled to fit in among her classmates. Surrounded by peers whose farthest move was from one neighborhood to the next, Kayla felt like she couldn’t relate. After much encouragement from her mom, who serves in the U.S. Air Force, Kayla checked out her local Boys & Girls Clubs of America-affiliated Youth Center. She immediately found her place.

Kayla discovered more than just a community at her Club. The various programs available helped her to thrive academically. She worked toward her associate’s degree while also earning her high school diploma through the Running Start Program at Southwestern Illinois College. She regularly volunteers in her community at nursing homes and community events at the base. She also mentors youth at her Club.

Kayla currently attends Texas State University and plans to pursue a career as a lawyer.