A Story of Triumph: Meet Argenis L. Our 2025 Youth of the Year

"The Club means everything, honestly. It taught me not to be scared, and that if you believe in something, go for it. It doesn't matter where you are. It doesn't matter who is ahead of you. It doesn't matter if somebody has something better than you. As long as you really put your heart into it, you will be able to achieve it."  — Argenis L.

These words from Argenis L, perfectly capture his journey with the Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence, a place that has been more than just a space to spend time after school—it has been his second home, support system, and foundation for success. As a 17-year-old senior at Lawrence High School, he has navigated adolescence with determination, growing into a leader in his school and community. From the starting line to the finish, BGCL has shaped his character by providing educational and athletic opportunities while fostering a deep sense of belonging. Through his experiences at the Club, Argenis developed resilience, leadership skills, and a commitment to giving back. His journey demonstrates the impact a strong support system can have on a young person’s development and future. Argenis truly exemplifies the perseverance, dedication, and values that BGCL strives to instill in all of its members, which is why we are so proud to honor him as our 2025 Youth of the Year! 

Read on to learn more about his inspirational path that led him to where he is today.


A Journey of Perseverance

Argenis’s path has been anything but easy. He has faced significant challenges, including personal and familial struggles, financial hardships, and feelings of exclusion. His journey has also been marked by physical injuries that could have derailed his athletic ambitions, emotional hardships, and academic struggles. Yet, through it all, he remained determined to succeed. Reflecting on his journey, Argenis shared, "I had to find a place to eat, a place to stay warm, and a place to study. Thankfully, my parents enrolled me in the Boys & Girls Club, and that changed everything for me."

"I had to find a place to eat, a place to stay warm, and a place to study. Thankfully, my parents enrolled me in the Boys & Girls Club, and that changed everything for me."

Perhaps one of the most telling aspects of Argenis’s character is his ability to turn obstacles into stepping stones. Despite experiencing marginalization and discrimination, he rose to become the student body vice president, advocating for his peers and working to ensure that all students have a voice. His fear of driving, born from tragic family losses in car accidents, was overcome with the Club’s support, allowing him to gain independence and confidence behind the wheel.

The Club: A Lifelong Anchor

From a very young age, Argenis was drawn to the Club, inspired by his siblings’ involvement and the sense of community they found there. He even described his anticipation to officially join the Club as a member at the age of seven as being similar to waiting for Christmas morning. From that moment forward, the Club became his safe haven.

"The Club provided me with more than just a space to be—it gave me a family. From holiday celebrations to academic support, BGCL played an instrumental role in shaping my life."

With his mother working two jobs and his father busy as a barber, Argenis found solace at the Club, where he spent his evenings forging friendships and participating in a range of enriching programs. "The Club provided me with more than just a space to be—it gave me a family. From holiday celebrations to academic support, BGCL played an instrumental role in shaping my life," he said.

The Club’s homework room became a lifeline for Argenis, providing the support he needed to overcome academic challenges. Staff members and volunteers played a crucial role in helping him master subjects from basic math to calculus, while also instilling discipline and structure in his study habits. With this guidance, Argenis developed a love for learning that continues to drive him today. "I was all over the place academically, but the homework room straightened me out. It taught me discipline and showed me that education is truly transformative," he explained.

Finding Strength in Sports

For Argenis, sports became more than just an activity—they became a means of self-discovery and growth. Originally, he struggled with insecurity, both mentally and physically, particularly about his body and weight. Encouraged by his older brother, he joined the Club’s basketball program, where he met Coach Chris Vasquez. Although he wasn’t the most confident or skilled player at first, Chris pushed him to step outside his comfort zone. “I was scared every day,” Argenis admitted. “I was worried, nervous. I never liked basketball that much, but he pushed me really hard, and I worked very hard.”

“I was confused about who I was going to be, but now I’ve found myself, and I’m very proud of it.”

As he gained confidence through basketball, he realized the potential sports had to shape his future. “The Club helped me branch out,” he said. “Then, I eventually found my love for sports.” The running drills in practice sparked an unexpected interest, and by the time he entered Lawrence High School, he decided to join the track and field team. “That’s when I realized—I can really see myself doing this,” he said. His newfound passion for running eventually led him to the weight room, where he discovered his natural ability in shot put and discus. From there, his throwing career began to take off, helping him build both strength and confidence.

Beyond the physical strength he built, Argenis credits sports with transforming him into a more independent and self-assured person. “It helped me find myself. When I’m training, I’m in my calm space. Everything else going on in my life fades away—I’m just focused on throwing,” he shared. Through years of dedication, he overcame self-doubt and uncertainty about his future. “I was confused about who I was going to be, but now I’ve found myself, and I’m very proud of it.”

A Leader in His Community

Argenis stands out for his achievements that extend well beyond the Club. As a student leader and community advocate, he has committed himself to numerous initiatives that uplift those around him. He has served as the Student Body Vice President and is a proud member of the National Honor Society. His dedication to athletics is evident in his representation of Lawrence in national track and field competitions, as well as his efforts in hosting clinics for middle school athletes to help develop the next generation of competitors.

"I hope to inspire my community and the kids who feel uncertain. I want to show them that this is possible. No matter where you come from, you can achieve something greater.”

Beyond sports, Argenis has devoted time to various community efforts. He has volunteered as a caregiver at the MSPCA, worked as a barber at HairDistinction, and assisted in the kitchen at Cor Unum, ensuring meals for those in need. His commitment to intellectual growth and global awareness is highlighted by his participation in Model United Nations, where he has also represented Lawrence in competitions. Furthermore, he actively engages in neighborhood cleanups, reinforcing his dedication to community service and bettering his surroundings.

"I hope to inspire my community and the kids who feel uncertain. I want to show them that this is possible. No matter where you come from, you can achieve something greater,” Argenis said.



A Bright Future Ahead

Argenis’s passion for sports, education, and giving back has positioned him as an inspiration for younger Club members. Whether running tournaments in the game room, operating the shot clock, or mentoring students in the homework room, he continues to leave a lasting impact on the Club that raised him.

 "The Club has nurtured me from a young age, and it’s still helping me grow to this day. I owe so much to this place, and I hope to give back in the future."

As he looks toward the future, Argenis carries with him the lessons of perseverance, discipline, and community that he learned at BGCL. "Achieving my goals has shown me that hard work and dedication truly pay off," he said.

His story is a testament to the power of the Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence and its ability to change lives. "The Club has nurtured me from a young age, and it’s still helping me grow to this day. I owe so much to this place, and I hope to give back in the future."

Congratulations to Argenis L., our 2025 Youth of the Year—a true champion of resilience and leadership!