delivered her powerful speech at the California Coastal Youth of the Year competition in Solvang and her story is one of resilience, determination, and hope. Hita is paving a new way for her family and her community. With her college acceptance letters rolling in, she remains on track to become the first in her family to graduate from high school and attend college - and she has officially accepted her offer to attend Washington State University this fall! For the past eight years, Hita has spent countless hours in our Clubs - from after school until closing, and even on Saturdays. In a community of hardworking field workers, her journey is a powerful reminder that a young person’s circumstances do not define their future when they have access to opportunity, support, and mentorship. Although she did not advance in the competition, she won the hearts of the room, our Club, our Board, our community, and everyone she meets - with her willingness to learn, grow, and lead the way!