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Alonte, 17, is a proud member of the Richard England Clubhouse 14 and attends Thurgood Marshall Academy. As a shy and reserved teen, he became a member of the Club at the age of 15.  Over time, his participation increased and he began to take advantage of the various programs and opportunities the Club had to offer. Program Director, Shawn Osborn describes him as the most improved member who has made huge strides.  Alonte has become an outstanding student at the Club and now refers to his fellow members and staff as “family”. He says, “The programs have kept me out of trouble. They helped to turn my life completely upside down.”
He’s an active member in the Pepco STEM Club and is the current president of the Keystone leadership program.   Some of his extra curriculum activities include modeling and graphic design.  Recently, Alonte was selected as a National winner in the Boys & Girls Club of America 2016 Digital Arts Festival. Out of the 1,500 Club youth that participated in the contest, Alonte was chosen as one of the 16 finalists to represent the organization.  When asked how he felt about the award, he said, “Makes me feel proud of myself.  I feel like I can accomplish anything if I put my heart and mind into it.”
BGCGW has broadened Alonte’s perspective about his future. His goal is to attend Morehouse University and obtain a degree in Engineering.  After college, he would like to have a professional career as an IT technician and pursue modeling and fashion design part time. “The Club has allowed me to see the potential that I have inside of me.  My Boys & Girls Club experience has opened my mind and now I utilize my time for activities that are life changing.”