OXNARD, Calif.— Daniel Diaz, is truly an exemplary member of the Oxnard and Port Hueneme communities.   At just fifteen years of age, Daniel has recently been chosen as the Youth of the Year for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme.  Diaz is among hundreds of local Youth of the Year winners across the country being recognized by Boys & Girls Clubs of America for his sound character, leadership skills and willingness to give back to his community. 

The Youth of the Year Title is highly coveted, and the most prestigious award that a Boys & Girls Club member can receive.  The title recognizes outstanding contributions to a member’s family, school, community and Boys & Girls Club, as well as personal challenges and obstacles overcome. 

A freshman at Oxnard High School, Daniel has been an active member of the Boys and Girls Club since he was 9 years old.  Daniel is a member of the Boys & Girls Club leadership program, and enjoys volunteering his time at the Club’s fundraisers. Daniel enjoys computers, playing video games, and spending time with his friends.  The youngest of his siblings and the son of a single mother, Daniel and his family recently went through some difficult times as his mother had lost her job after eleven years of service, they were then evicted from their apartment and the family car was totaled.  Despite hardship, Daniel showed dedication, love and loyalty to his mother, and was the “light at the end of the tunnel” and her “rock.”   Daniel notes, “My mother has been a constant source of inspiration in my life.”

“Some say leaders are born in times of crisis.  Daniel has proven that through difficulty, he can not only persevere, but inspire.  He is truly an exemplary member of this community, and we are fortunate to have him here at the Club,” said Tim Blaylock, chief professional officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme. 

On April 4th, Diaz will compete against other Boys & Girls Club members for the Ventura County Youth of the Year Title at the Courtyard by Marriott in Oxnard.  County Schools Federal Credit Union is the official competition sponsor, and will award all finalists a $100 scholarship, and $400 will go to the first place winner.