BHS senior captures youth of the year honors

  • Published
  • By Mark Wyatt
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  Caitlen Epperson, an 18 year-old senior at Bedford High School, is this year's Hanscom Military Youth of the Year and will now move on to compete at the state level, Youth Center officials announced earlier this week.

The Military Youth of the Year honor is a component of the Boys and Girls Club of America National Youth of the Year program. It recognizes a Youth Center member on a military installation who has demonstrated exceptional character and accomplishments.

Epperson, who intends to study communications after graduation, has been an active member of Hanscom's Youth Center since moving to the base three years ago.

"I got involved in the Youth Center right after moving to Hanscom my sophomore year of high school, and I absolutely loved it," she said. "I love the opportunity I have to volunteer in the community, as well as the leadership opportunities it offers me."

Her passion for volunteering is evident by the number of events on- and off-base she was involved in.

"Over the last year I volunteered at the Youth Center's Day for Kids, Trunk or Treat, Spring Fling and have been involved in toy drives and at local animal shelters," she said. "I have a great sense of accomplishment when I do something good for someone else, for someone in need."

Her father noticed this passion to help others soon after she became active at the Hanscom Youth Center.

"Caitlen's altruism for others is her hallmark in life," said Chief Warrant Officer Mike Epperson, 4th Marine Logistics Group inspector instructor. "She inspires her peers through her personal example and never hesitates to lend a hand."

In addition to her volunteer efforts, this year's youth of the year played varsity volleyball, is participating in the school play, is co-editor of the BHS yearbook and sings in two a capella groups through the high school.

Additionally, Epperson serves as the president of the Keystone Club, a teen leadership group for youth ages 13 to 18. The club focuses on four areas: academic success, career preparation, community service and engaging teens. Members aim to have a positive impact on other members, the club and community.

"I really enjoy connecting with other members of the Youth Center, in particular those younger who I can mentor and whose shoes I have likely walked in," Epperson said. "I remember looking up to those older club members when I first joined."

Jillian Wilbur, Youth Programs teen coordinator, said that this year's youth of the year epitomizes many of the characteristics required.

"I am truly impressed by her dedication and willingness to lead others at the Youth Center," Wilbur said, who has been teen advisor since August 2015. "Caitlen is incredibly deserving of this recognition and I wish her luck as she continues on in the process."

Hanscom's nominee will now advance through state and regional competitions. After the Military Youth of the Year is named at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., in the fall, winners advance to join the five regional Youth of the Year finalists from traditional BGCA clubs to compete for the National Youth of the Year title.

The Youth Center is always looking for other youths of high merit who are outstanding members in their school and throughout the community to nominate as Youth of the Year. For further information, call the Youth Center at 781-225-6043.