Jones competed in $5,000 scholarship program with Malta Boys & Girls Club

[Helena, MT], [02/19/2019] – Boys & Girls Clubs of the Hi-Line Youth of the Year, Shelby Jones, recently competed for a $5,000 Scholarship and Montana State Title. Six contestants from Boys & Girls Clubs around the state were judged on three written essays, their speech and an interview in front of five judges. This year's winning contestant was from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Yellowstone County.

Contestants had another opportunity to present their speeches at the Youth of the Year Banquet held at the Delta Colonial Inn. Special guests included Governor Steve Bullock and the first lady, Lisa Bullock, and this year's judges, Lt. Governor Mike Cooney, Deputy Attorney General Mark Mattioli, Superintendent Elsie Arntzen, Budget Director Tom Livers and Director of the Department of Public Health & Human Services Shelia Hogan, Senator Mike Lang, a large attendance of other Montana State Legislators, contestant family members and Boys & Girls Clubs personnel.

The following day Youth of the Year contestants were invited to meet with their constituents and tour the State Capitol and then were introduced and honored on the House of Representatives floor.

Shelby's vision for America's youth is that every youth will "Be Involved." She spoke about how being involved at Malta Boys & Girls Club has helped her with teambuilding skills, patience and courage to break out of her shell, and try new things. She also wanted to educate youth of today about the importance of keeping their social media life safe and balanced. Shelby spoke about how the Club helped her explore career options and provided her the tools and connections she needed to help her decide what she wanted to do after she graduates from high school. Shelby's future plans are to attend Fort Belknap College to get a degree in Nursing.

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Hi-Line thanks everyone who helped Shelby with her Youth of the Year venture. According to Shelby, "I had a fun time getting to know other Youth of the Year from around the State, the Judges, the Senators and the Congressmen, and I appreciate everyone's support and encouragement. It was an unforgettable experience. Thank You."