Boys and Girls Club Announces Minnesota Youth of the Year

SAINT PAUL - The Boys and Girls Club has announced Gao Hlee Moua as their Minnesota Youth of the Year.

The Youth of the Year program celebrates youth who have overcome challenges and demonstrated exceptional character and accomplishments. Candidates are recognized for their service to the club and community, academic performance and contributions to family.

Gao Hlee is 17 years old and is from the Boys and Girls Club Twin Cities Mt Airy branch. She joined the club when she was just six years old and is the ninth and youngest child of Hmong immigrants.

Gao Hlee plans to attend the College of Saint Benedict after high school to major in law. She'll move on to compete in the national competition and have a chance at a $10,000 scholarship.

St. Cloud State University Student Bryan Court represented the Central Boys and Girls Club division in St. Paul. Court was named the Eastside Club's Youth of the Year in late January and will receive a $5,000 scholarship.