Every year 4,000 Boys & Girls Clubs across the country honor one of their own outstanding teens with the prestigious honor of Youth of the Year to represent their local club.

The six finalists for the Boys & Girls Club of Lake Tahoe are: Alejandro Aguirre, Michael Bergsten, Jade Burghard, Aria D’Aintree, Angela Rheault, and Owen Slater. All six were selected using the National Boys & Girls Club of America criteria of sound character, leadership, and willingness to serve.

These are the qualities that make a Youth of the Year. They are also some of the most important qualities young people need to realize their full potential.

On Jan. 18 the winner will be announced at the club’s monthly Family Chili Dinner Night. Josh Kornbeck, Youth of the Year 2011, will be making the announcement.

The public is invited to this free event that takes place at the club’s main site at 1100 Lyons Ave., South Lake Tahoe.

To learn more about the Boys & Girls Club, go online.