2025 BGCKV's Youth of the Year

Camden Genest

Camden Genest, our 2025 Boys & Girls Clubs of Kennebec Valley Youth of the Year, shares: "The Boys and Girls Club isn’t just a place to go; it’s a second home and a gigantic family that includes so many people. When I think about what the Club has done for me, it’s hard to put it into words. The Club is such an important place for kids like me who need someone to count on. I’m so honored to now be that mentor who can be there for those who need the support, joy, or confidence I needed. Because of the Club, I’ve learned that even the hardest chapters in your life lead to beautiful memories, and I’m more than ready to help other club kids write their stories.

Since I have been a kid who has been through so much and used The Club and its mentors as a tool to not let it hold me back, I feel like I am now prepared to better help the younger kids who may face the same struggles I did.  I want to return the favor of giving back my time and my kindness to others the same way Savannah did to me, and the same way Savannah’s Club mentors did to her.  Through volunteering and working at The Club, I have learned so many valuable life lessons.  I have learned that it doesn't take too much effort to make a difference in the lives of the youth that I mentor. Helping mentees with their homework, serving them "Lupper," and playing games with them not only benefits their lives but also the community as a whole. I’m proud of the 1,600 hours of community service that I have completed, and I'm hopeful that I can influence youth to give back when given the opportunity like I did. They can also experience the amazing feeling you get when a child thanks you for something so simple, like helping them with a project, handing them a tray of food when they are hungry, or giving a peer hope when they have an honest conversation with you & experience the realization that they are not alone. "



Youth of the Year celebrates teens whose Club experience has empowered them to find their own voice and achieve succss through afterschool experiences rooted in what matters most to them - choice, access, passion. These amazing young people represent the voice and spirit of hope for 4 million Boys & Girls Club youth.

The Youth of the Year is the most prestigious honor bestowed upon a young person. These individuals exemplify the Boys & Girls Club mission and are proof of the impact Clubs make in transforming and savings kids' lives.