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Farmington recognizes Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year winners Aaron Lierz and Josie Wheat
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Summary
The Farmington City Council honored Aaron Lierz and Josie Wheat as San Juan County and New Mexico state runners-up for Youth of the Year and Junior Youth of the Year, respectively; each gave a personal speech about motivation and family challenges.
The Farmington City Council on April 8 recognized two youth leaders from the Boys & Girls Clubs of San Juan County: Aaron Lierz, named county Youth of the Year and New Mexico state runner-up, and Josie Wheat, named county Junior Youth of the Year and New Mexico state runner-up.
Michelle Meiring, chief executive officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of San Juan County, introduced Aaron from the Aztec club and Josie from the Farmington club, calling them "prime examples of the work that we do every day in our nine sites across the county." Both students delivered the speeches they had presented in Santa Fe.
Aaron Lierz spoke about motivation and the support systems that have sustained him through foster care and family instability. He described maintaining a 4.12 GPA, participating in extracurricular activities and finding mentors at the club. "Motivation is what keeps me going," Aaron said. He urged the audience to "find what motivates you and hold on to it" and stressed the club’s role in providing that environment.
Josie Wheat described growing up with a parent who struggled with alcohol and the impact on her family, at one point saying she and her sister slept in the garage to get away from shouting. "To dads who struggle with alcohol, please remember that your words matter," Josie told the council. She credited the Boys & Girls Club staff and friends with helping her find her voice and leadership.
Mayor Decatur and several councilors praised the youths’ presentations. Councilor Rogers called the remarks "incredible" and thanked the Boys & Girls Club staff for providing a safe space. Councilor Buck said discipline and resilience were clear themes in both speeches. The mayor presented each student with a mayoral certificate of recognition and a citizenship coin honoring service, stewardship and civility.
The council’s recognition is honorary; no formal vote was required. Presenters and many council members emphasized the community role of the Clubs and the value of local mentorship for children facing family challenges.
