Meet Felix Torres - BGCB Youth of
the Year
As 17-year-old Felix Torres awaits his college acceptance letters, he says, “I applied to a few colleges and I hope they notice not only my grades, but the character within me.”
According to family members, Club staff and teachers, Felix’s moral character is outstanding. He serves as president of the Club’s teen leadership program, Keystone Club, and is the team captain of Chelsea High Football. In both of these roles, he is known for his work ethic and leadership skills. In school and at the Club, his attendance record is excellent and his behavior is exemplary.
For Felix, it’s not just about showing up, but about how he spends his time. He takes the initiative to help those around him, and does so without expecting something in return. He has packed food bags for the elderly residents living at the East Pointe Nursing Home in Chelsea, volunteered regularly at the food bank, planned park and Club clean ups, read to younger kids at Chelsea Public Library, helped younger Club members with their homework, and organized a cultural night to encourage other Club members to embrace their heritage.
Those who know Felix best say that he is determined to do well, and prides himself on having and achieving goals. This makes him an excellent role model, especially to young males in the community. According to a Club staff member, he is “the type of person to lead others down the right path and help them stay on that path.”
“My Keystone advisors want to see the best in me and want me to bring everything to the table,” he says. “The little things I do in this Club are the things that help the young ones look up to me. If I never joined the Club I wouldn’t be the young man I am today.”
Felix hopes to go to college in the fall, where he will major in accounting.
“The Club staff always helped me with my homework, were there when I needed them, and led me to the right path… I would help out the staff if necessary. They really appreciated me, but I really appreciated them for what they have done for me throughout the years.”