Mario L., 17

2020-21 Pacific Youth of the Year

Club/Organization: Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley
Length of Membership: 6 years
Preferred College: Dartmouth College
Career Interest: Neurologist
Defining Characteristics: Ambitious, Optimistic

“Entering the glass doors of my Club, I was a shy, insecure and lonely boy who was not certain of what the future had in store and if my life would ever change. My Club was with me every step of the way giving me the tools I needed to write my own future.”

Every young person, like Mario, deserves a safe, positive environment in which to learn and grow.

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Before coming to his Boys & Girls Club, Mario was shy and insecure. He found mentors at the Club who accepted, motivated and supported him, and he credits the Club with forcing him to step outside of his comfort zone to become the best version of himself. Over the last six years, Mario went from participating in Club programs to leading them. He serves as president of BGCA’s teen leadership program, Keystone Club, and is the Club’s first UPS Road Code Ambassador, a position that advocates for safe teen driving.

Mario knew from a young age that he wanted to help people. He serves as a tutor to younger Club members and is proud to be a role model. As the child of two Mexican immigrants, Mario was often a victim of stereotypes because of his background. He is passionate about expanding acceptance of other cultures and was selected to participate in the Diversity, Inclusion and Racial Healing Ambassador Program at University of California, Irvine.

Mario is a high school senior with plans to attend Dartmouth College when he graduates. He wants to further his passion for helping others by becoming a neurologist.