Award presentation

Nikki Bennett, 23d Force Support Squadron youth programs section chief, and Amy Thompson, 23d FSS youth sports and fitness director, of the Moody Youth Program receive the prestigious Merit Award for Program Excellence in the best overall program under $500,000 from Judith J. Pickens, Boys and Girls Clubs of America senior vice president. The award was recently presented during Boys and Girls Clubs of America’s 106th National Conference in San Diego, Cailf. Merit Awards for Program Excellence, sponsored by MetLife Foundation, are presented annually for outstanding programs developed and implemented in Boys and Girls Clubs across the country to lead youth to a great future. Each recognition comes with a $2,000 award. Each year, hundreds of entries are submitted in the five core program areas: character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills, the arts, and sports, fitness and recreation.