ALAMOSA — Boys & Girls Clubs of the San Luis Valley President & CEO Aaron Miltenberger was recognized last week by its national organization, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA), as the recipient of the Southwest Region’s 2019 J. Richard Ullom Rookie of the Year Award for outstanding leadership and significant achievements and contributions during the first year of service as chief executive officer.

“I am indeed honored,” said Miltenberger.  “This award acknowledges all of the work that our staff, boards, donors and ongoing supporters have done over the past year to truly transform our organization. It is welcome encouragement as BGCSLV continues to prepare today’s youth for tomorrow’s challenges as a leading youth services provider in the San Luis Valley.”

The award recognized significant increases in organizational measures such as programs, budgets, youth served and teen membership. Highlights of the nomination included a 75 percent increase in total youth served (over 1,700 youth) and a 40 percent increase in teen members. In the past school year, the Boys & Girls Clubs of the San Luis Valley has seen over 140 members on average every day, which is well over the 106 members visiting the Clubs daily in early 2018.

“We have made some significant strides over the past year in serving more youth, more often, with deeper impact but we still have a long way to go to serve the entire San Luis Valley’s needs for out of school time programs,” said Miltenberger. “With the help of our members, the staff who do this every day, the support from the Board and our community partners we hope to continue to increase our impact in the lives of young people.”