Skyla Barnes

Skyla started at the Upward Bound program in May and immediately made an impression. She came ready to participate and share her story, and continues to work to better herself. Although she has been through a lot in the past couple of years, she has shown herself to be extremely caring and helpful to her peers, giving them the confidence they need to face their own problems. Skyla has been a wonderful role model to younger children as well and truly enjoys working with them– so much so that she’s disappointed she has to wait another year to become a CIT at Camp Ulbrich! She is working towards becoming a healthier person – she is currently training to run her first 5K - even if it takes a little prodding to get her motivated on some days. Skyla is definitely committed to a drug-free lifestyle, and has actively worked with friends to get them on the same path. Some days may be more difficult than others, but she pushes herself to be the best friend and person she can be, at times putting her own feelings aside when she knows that someone else needs a shoulder to cry on or person to talk to. I am very proud to nominate her for this award, as she is a true Champion for Youth.