Isaac Simpson, 18, has made history as the first Youth of the Year at the At-Promise Boys & Girls Club. Isaac says he’s grateful for the new Club in his Westside Atlanta community. He said it’s a safe haven with loving, committed staff that always encourages him to put his best foot forward.
Isaac is a graduating senior at Booker T. Washington High School. He has big aspirations of giving back to his community by one day opening up a nonprofit for inner-city residents. Isaac grew up in Vine City, a neighborhood with a reputation for gang violence and drug dealing. But Isaac said these circumstances won’t not stop him from succeeding and showing other teens they, too, can be the positive change they want to see in the world.
“I want to bring positive attention to my community for change.”
The A/B honor roll student has achieved many things, but he says being named Youth of the Year is among his greatest achievements.
“When I look at the current Youth of the Year, I look at someone who motivates others. I want to be that same light to people.”
Greg Bannister, site director for the At-Promise Boys & Girls Club, said Isaac is indeed a “light” among his peers and adults.
“From the first day he stepped into my Club, I knew he was destined for greatness. The first thing is that he began to engage his peers in a positive manner. It was time for a Keystone teen community service and leadership meeting, and Isaac would gather and start the meeting without being instructed by staff. He takes initiative in everything he does, and this trait has started to rub off on others.”
In addition to the Keystone Club, for which Isaac serves as president, Mr. Greg says Isaac is a member of several other organizations including the teen leadership council. Isaac is very passionate about making a difference in his community, having participated in several revitalization projects like sprucing up Mattie Freeland Park.
Staff members like Mr. Greg says Isaac has exhibited good character and leadership in so many ways. In addition to having a kind spirit, Isaac has several talents and interests like playing the guitar. He loves video games and some of his all-time favorite Club activities are Camp’Amped artistic expression program and the Lyricism 101 spoken word program.
Isaac believes it’s never too early to prepare for the future – he already has a couple of internships under his belt.
After graduating high school, Isaac wants to attend University of Georgia to study environmental science.