Extraordinary teen honored as Moody Youth of the Year

  • Published
  • By Airman Greg Nash
  • 23d Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  The Boys and Girls Club of America, in conjunction with Moody Youth Programs, recognized 17-year-old Lowndes High School junior Bailey Wingate with the Youth of the Year award Feb. 20.

Yearlong evaluations were made in which judges examined candidate's contributions to their school, local community, and base youth center to determine the winner of the Youth of the Year award.

"Bailey has a willingness that is contagious and is readily available to assist whenever needed," said Becky Lipp, Moody Youth Programs interim director. "Bailey has shown her enthusiasm and dedication to higher education and supporting her community and nation."

Wingate has been a member of Moody Youth Programs since the first grade, said Lipp.

"[Bailey] became involved with the Torch Club and continued on to the Keystone Club," said Lipp. "She quickly became a leader within the club. She has volunteered for many events such as planning and implementing the 2014 Sugar Shack at the Tree Lighting Ceremony, graduated Toastmasters, assisted with the 2014 College and Career Fair and assisted with building beautification projects."

Wingate mentioned that she likes how the Moody Youth Programs staff has continuously pushed her to be the best she possibly can. She also added that her mother, U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Sherie Sams, 23d Comptroller Squadron superintendent, is her motivation.

"My mother inspires me," said Wingate. "She taught me the value of getting things done and to always work hard. It's also a good feeling knowing that I can ask her anything, too. I was so shy at first with opening up with people but I've learned how to do things on my own and be comfortable doing it thanks to the staff. I'm more involved within the community through school and the [youth] program."

Wingate also said she takes the most pride in helping others.

"My achievements are nice, but overall I just like helping people in any way I can," said Wingate. "I love to help people because the youth programs staff helped me come out of my shell, which was a challenge."

Wingate and Sams spoke about the challenges Wingate faced as a military brat being difficult at times because of the uncertainty of potentially moving and getting along with new people.

"Moving around was hard," said Bailey. "The whole process of worrying about making new friends and being uncertain is difficult."

"Bailey has always been shy until she gets comfortable around you," said her mother. "She's always felt comfortable with the youth programs because there's usually more diversity within the base. While I was stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., there wasn't a lot of diversity at the school she was attending but found comfort and made friends quickly within the base youth program due to that background of military familiarity, more diversity and bonded with the kids there," Sams added.

The ability to cope with hardships and challenges are some components of what judges look at in determining winners at all levels of BGCA youth awards.

Despite the challenges of a military upbringing, Wingate is optimistic about her future endeavors as she aspires to be a journalist.

"I want to go to college for journalism and eventually work for a magazine," said Wingate. "It's always been a dream of mine."

Sams also mentions of how awe struck she is of Wingate's accomplishments.

"I am truly proud of Bailey and am in awe of her accomplishments," said Sams. "Every child has their ups and downs but Bailey has always maintained good grades and been a great daughter. I'm thankful for her every day."

Although Wingate won't be able to attend in the state level competition due to commitment to the LHS track-and-field team, she will represent Moody Youth Programs. Furthermore, she plans to stay actively involved within her school, community and at the base youth center.