Patrick Youth Programs announces Youth of the Year

  • Published
  • By Chrissy Cuttita
  • 45th Space Wing Public Affairs
Not every teenager gets to say they spent their summer vacation at an Air Force leadership camp like one Patrick Air Force Base youth will be able to.

Jocelyn Nimbley, Patrick  Air Force Base Youth Programs volunteer, was recently selected as the installation winner for the annual Boys and Girls Club of America national competition Military Youth of The Year. As a result, she will attend a week-long Air Force Services sponsored Youth of the Year camp in July.

"She is the best choice because she has been a long standing member who consistently displays leadership qualities and a willingness to pay it forward to others," said Darleena Jones, programs director at Patrick Air Force Base's youth center. "She has worked hard at school, home and at Youth Programs."

Nimbley, daughter of Senior Master Sgt. Julio Nimbley of Eglin Air Force Base, Florida and Elisa Cardona of Rockledge, Florida, recently graduated from Rockledge High School with a 3.4 GPA while also enrolled in Florida Eastern State College.

"I feel really honored," said Nimbley, who was surprised she was selected.

As a volunteer here, the teen assisted with summer programs and special events for several years at Patrick's Youth Center that supports military youth and their families through a partnership with the Boys and Girls Club of America.

"The Air Force Youth of the Year coincides with the Boys and Girls Clubs of America's Youth of the Year Program," said Jones. "We have been affiliated with them for more than 15 years and have had the program in place since the beginning of that affiliation. The program recognizes teenagers for their good work in school, clubs, the community, their family and life skills in setting positive goals for their future."

During the time Nimbley was planning dances, fashion shows and plays for Patrick's Youth Center, she was also member of the following clubs in high school; National Beta Club, Spanish dance club and future problem solvers. She also served in leadership positions such as president of the reading club, co-leader for the academics club which placed fourth in the district competitions, treasurer for the world languages club and second chair cellist in the Rockledge High School Orchestra.
 
The teen said the activities she led helped her learn responsibility and time management.

Although she said the state competition for the Boys and Girls Club of America Youth of The Year was "a nerve wracking experience," Nimbley said speaking in front of judges helped her get ready for future job interviews.

"During the summer leadership program, she will attend training sessions, perform community service, assist in planning activities for next year's Air Force Teen Council Movement and benefit from the mentoring of professionals in the youth field and beyond," said Jones.

After camp, Nimbley plans to attend the University of West Florida in Pensacola, Florida, and pursue a degree in Psychology.