Local Jacksonville teen and 2022 Youth of the Year for Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida Laniya Flowers recently received a surprise life-changing gift of a Nissan Altima for her 19th birthday.
On Dec. 1, an unsuspecting Flowers arrived at Greg’s Auto Collision Center in St. Augustine with her mom, who had convinced her to stay home longer from her Thanksgiving college break. When her blindfold was removed to reveal a Nissan Altima, Flowers was completely shocked and overwhelmed with emotion.
“I was amazed to receive this generous gift,” said Laniya Flowers. “My Boys & Girls Club experience has taught me that you’re bigger than any obstacle. The mentors I found at the club taught me how to turn obstacles into benefits and use them to become a more wise, influential person.”
In tears, she hugged her Boys & Girls Club family, mentors, parents, siblings and others who attended. Representatives from The Florida Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs, GEICO and the National Auto Body Council were onsite to congratulate Flowers on her new ride. She was also happy to receive a $1,000 gift card and a complete car wash kit from Enterprise Rent-A-Car.
“The Florida Alliance is grateful for the partnership with GEICO through the NABC’s Recycled Rides program,” said Joseph Davis, executive director, Florida Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs. “We are delighted that Boys & Girls Club youth and families have benefited from this charitable endeavor from GEICO, the National Auto Body Council and the collision centers that donate their time and effort. We look forward to the continued collaboration with GEICO.”
This generous car donation was made possible by the National Auto Body Council’s Recycled Rides Program, GEICO, The Florida Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs, Greg’s Auto Collision Center and Enterprise Rent-A-Car.
“My office and I are extremely proud to be a part of a company that believes in giving back to the community,” said Christopher Brown, principal owner, GEICO St. Augustine. “Being a business in a community isn't just about what the community does for you, but what you can do for the community to make it better.”
Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida chose Flowers as the recipient of this surprise car giveaway because of her example of the organization’s mission to enable all young people to reach their full potential.
“We are so proud of Laniya and how well she has represented Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida,” said Paul Martinez, President & CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida. “We are excited to continue to play a role in her inspiring story.”
Currently a freshman at Florida State University, Flowers was named the 2022 Youth of the Year for Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida in February following a rigorous selection process including public speaking, personal essays and panel interviews.
This annual Youth of the Year competition recognizes outstanding young leaders among Boys & Girls Club members based on their academic achievements, leadership abilities and communication skills. Representing the Edward H. White Teen Center where she was a club member at the time, Flowers was selected as the most qualified finalist to serve as a role model, ambassador and spokesperson for Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida and its members.
Local Youth of the Year winners like Flowers represent the organization for that year in additional regional and national Youth of the Year competitions through Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
