It was a full circle moment for Roxana Delgado.

As a Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago alum, she has sat in the Navy Pier audience several times as a guest to cheer for the young people who graced the stage. In 2011, she was a Youth of the Year finalist herself. But this year was different.

Delgado was featured in a video that premiered at this year’s 2024 Youth of the Year Competition and Dinner, telling her story again to a room full of nearly 800 BGCC supporters.

“As I watched the video for the first time, tears of joy and appreciation washed over me,” Delgado said. “It was beautiful experience to hear my story as a girl from Little Village who had many odds against her being where she is today. I have attended the Youth of the Year Competition and Dinner for many years, and that night was a cool full circle moment.”

Giving back to her Club is important to Delgado, who has remained involved even after graduating high school. The time she spends at the Club as an alum gives her the opportunity to be the person she needed when she was younger.

“Growing up in a low-income household, opportunities often seemed distant," Delgado said. “However, stepping into the Club's welcoming atmosphere, I found more than just a safe space – I found a gateway to possibility. Whether through educational programs, field trips, or simply the unwavering support of staff and peers, the Club became key for my personal and academic growth.”

After graduating college and working for several organizations, including the Chicago White Sox, Delgado started her own marketing business, Marketing Rox, LLC.

The video exemplifies what BGCC is all about, providing opportunities for our Club members to find their passions they may not have found otherwise. Whether it's volunteering at a Club program, making a financial contribution, or simply sharing your story, there are many ways to give back.

“No matter how you choose to contribute, big or small, your efforts can truly make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people and the communities the Clubs serve,” Delgado said.

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