“Being named Youth of the Year is an honor, but it’s a reflection of the support, guidance, and inspiration I’ve received from others. This award is not just for me, it’s for every young person working hard to make a difference, big or small. Keep believing in yourself, keep pushing through challenges, and never underestimate the power of your voice and actions. Together, we can build a brighter future.“

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ABOUT JEANASIA RICHMOND

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County is proud to recognize Jeanasia Richmond as the 2026 Youth of the Year, honoring her leadership, perseverance, and commitment to making a positive impact on those around her. A senior at El Dorado High School, Jeanasia’s journey through the Boys & Girls Club reflects years of personal growth, dedication, and a desire to uplift others.

Jeanasia has been a member of the Boys & Girls Club since kindergarten in 2014, and from the very beginning, the Club provided a place where she could connect with others and find encouragement. As an only child growing up in El Dorado, Arkansas, the Club gave her opportunities to build friendships and develop a sense of belonging. It also offered academic support through tutoring and activities that helped her grow both socially and educationally.

Over the years, the Club has become much more than just a place to spend time after school. For Jeanasia, it has been a space filled with opportunities, fun experiences, and meaningful relationships. She describes the Club as a place she would happily be every day because of the welcoming environment and the chance to be involved in something positive. Just as important to her is the opportunity to give back. As she has grown older, Jeanasia has taken pride in mentoring younger members and serving as someone they can look up to.

Being named Youth of the Year is a meaningful milestone for Jeanasia. To her, the recognition represents the hard work, growth, and challenges she has overcome along the way. She sees the award not only as an honor but also as a reminder that her efforts and leadership matter. More importantly, it motivates her to continue setting a positive example for others and striving for success in everything she does.

One of the most impactful moments of her journey came when she was first given the opportunity to step into a leadership role at the Club. At the time, she admits she felt nervous and unsure of herself. However, the encouragement and belief shown by the Club staff helped her push past that uncertainty. Leading that activity helped her realize that her voice and ideas had value. That experience boosted her confidence and encouraged her to continue stepping outside of her comfort zone and embracing new challenges.

Jeanasia’s leadership extends beyond the Club as well. At school and in the community, she has stepped up to help others, organize group efforts, and encourage participation. Through these experiences, she has learned the importance of teamwork, communication, and responsibility. One of her proudest accomplishments has been earning multiple welding certificates and helping organize welding activities that brought students together in a supportive and positive environment. These experiences strengthened her leadership skills and showed her how meaningful it can be to help others learn and grow.

Like many young leaders, Jeanasia has faced moments of self-doubt along the way. There were times when she questioned whether she was capable of achieving her goals. Through the support of the Boys & Girls Club and the encouragement of mentors, she learned to push past those doubts and believe in her abilities. The Club provided a safe place where she could try new things, develop new skills, and build confidence in herself.

Much of Jeanasia’s determination comes from the influence of her mother, who she describes as one of her greatest role models. Watching her mother’s strength, patience, and dedication taught her the value of hard work and perseverance. Those lessons have shaped how Jeanasia approaches challenges and opportunities in her own life.

Looking ahead, Jeanasia plans to attend Southern Arkansas University, where she hopes to earn a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Science. She also plans to remain involved in FFA while pursuing her studies and hopes to eventually own land where she can raise animals and grow plants. With clear goals and a strong work ethic, she is determined to continue building a future rooted in education and hard work.

As Youth of the Year, Jeanasia hopes to encourage younger Club members to believe in themselves and never be afraid to try new things. She reminds them that mistakes are part of the learning process and that perseverance and kindness can take them far. Her message is simple but powerful: stay focused on your goals, surround yourself with people who support you, and never give up on your dreams.

Jeanasia Richmond’s story reflects the very heart of the Boys & Girls Club mission. Through years of encouragement, mentorship, and opportunity, she has grown into a confident leader who inspires others. As the 2026 Youth of the Year, she represents the impact the Club can have on young people and the bright future that awaits those who are willing to work hard and believe in themselves.

Our Boys & Girls Club wants to develop a way for the community to know what is happening in and around the Club. Through this new “Stay in the Loop” email campaign, community members will receive emails periodically from our Club keeping them up-to-date on Club member highlights, Club events, and important dates. It takes a community, and we want to ensure that ours is in-the-loop! If you would like to Stay in the Loop, click here!