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Recognition of Commerce City's nominees for Adams County Mayors & Commissioners Youth Award
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Summary and Background Information: The Adams County Mayors & Commissioners Youth Award is an annual award program that provides businesses, community and civic leaders the opportunity to recognize youth ages 13 to 19 who have overcome personal diversity and created positive changes in their lives. Last year, Commerce City had fourteen nominees, four of which were recognized countywide. This year's nine local nominees include:
DAMON DENHAM
Damon has been faced with a variety of medical and developmental conditions. Despite doubts Damon has surpassed what doctors have said he would be able to accomplish and has become an athlete, a student, a leader an all-around caring person. Damon helps his elderly neighbors, fundraises for local nursing homes, mentors younger children and plays basketball, football and wrestling to list a few of his accomplishments.
DANIEL OLVERA
Daniel has overcome bad choices he has made in his life by choosing to turn his life around and be a positive role model for others by aspiring to become a police officer. Daniel has raised his grades and adopted a positive attitude so that he can achieve his dream of becoming a police officer and helping at risk kids.
VALYNTINE LONERGAN
Valyntine has had many challenges and obstacles in her life but has been able to persevere through them all while being a great role model for others. Valyntine's father has been a big part of her life, encouraging her to do good and do well in school. Valyntine spends much of her time mentoring younger students helping them feel comfortable at school and motivating them to reach their goals. She is also involved with sports such as volleyball and track.
GENAVEE GONZALES
Despite being faced with less than ideal circumstances Genavee has been kind, welcoming and truly authentic since day one. Genavee maintains excellent grades and is part of the Where Everyone Belongs group at school, which is a mentorship program for younger students. Genavee's nominator stated that "Genavee is someone who has not let difficulties in life define her, but help her aspire to succeed."
ALYSSA APODACA
Alyssa, with the support and encouragement from her mother has made the choice to work hard in school, go to college and be successful. Alyssa is responsible and helps look out for her sister when she needs it. She is involved in several leadership groups and is a great role model for her large network of friends.
SANDRA SOTO
Sandra has overcome some difficult times but despite the tough situations she has been presented with she decided she was not going to let what happened to her stop her from reaching her goals. Sandra has set a goal of attending college and becoming a lawyer. Sandra is involved in sports, the Boys and Girls Club, and mentoring. She wants to make the world around her a better place.
DORTHIA McMULLEN
Dorthia McMullen is an 8th grader at Kearney Middle School. Despite her unstable home life, she is a leader in her community. Dorthia is a WEB leader where she serves as a mentor to younger students. She plans and organizes school events, and is also involved in a youth group at her church. Dorthia is a quiet leader who influences her peers through her positive example.
JOSIE SAMSON
Josie attends Stuart Middle School. She was born with a heart defect and has undergone 21 surgeries, with multiple complications. Josie's adversity has turned into her advantage of a unique perspective on life. This attitude permeates her life; she is truly a joyous person to be around and she inspires those around her.
DANTE BREWTON
Dante is in 8th grade at Stuart Middle School. Despite missing many school days due to a serious illness, Dante has maintained high expectations for his academic success. Dante serves as a role model for his peers. He shows that there is no excuse for not putting school first. He is very vocal about advocating for his education and success.
The top 20 students in Adams County are recognized at a banquet Thursday, April 17 at Riverside Country Club. The city is honored to have three of our nominees represented:
-Josie Samson
-Genavee Gonzales
-Daniel Olvera
Staff Responsible (Department Head): Carolyn Keith
Staff Member Presenting: Jacob Cox, youth and teen services coordinator
Financial Impact: $0
Funding Source: N/A
Staff Recommendation: Recognize teens in attendance, presenting them with award certificates and posing for photos.
Suggested Motion: N/A