The Boys & Girls Club of Ridgefield hosted a heartfelt evening filled with inspiration, gratitude, and recognition, celebrating the remarkable individuals who make the Club a beacon of leadership and community.
The night was a tribute to the people who fill the Club with energy, passion, and purpose—Club families, supporters, members, staff, and the Board of Directors. It was an evening of reflection and celebration, honoring the programs and individuals who embody the Club’s mission.
As the evening unfolded, attendees heard about the Club’s core programs, including Keystone, Torch Club, and the newly introduced Future Leaders program, designed to recognize middle school members for their leadership potential. These programs are at the heart of the Club’s commitment to shaping future generations, and reinforcing values of service, responsibility, and mentorship.
A Surprise Honor for a True Champion of Youth
One of the most touching moments of the night came when retired Ridgefield Police Major Shawn Platt was honored with the Champion of Youth Award, which came as a complete surprise to him. His longtime friend, Ridgefield Police Chief Jeff Kreitz, introduced him, reflecting on Platt’s unwavering dedication to bridging the gap between law enforcement and the community’s youth.
Platt, whose sons grew up at the Club, called it his “second family”. His work in the Ridgefield Police Department transformed the way officers engage with young people, fostering trust, mentorship, and understanding. Chief Kreitz highlighted the lasting impact of Platt’s leadership, sharing a quote from Jackie Robinson: “A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.” Platt’s influence, Kreitz noted, has forever changed the way the department polices, leaving a legacy of connection and respect. Fighting back tears, Platt expressed his deep gratitude, emphasizing how the Club has shaped not only his family but the entire community.
Junior Youth of the Year and Youth of the Year: A Moment of Pride
As the night built toward its most anticipated moment, Club members gathered for the announcement of the highest honors—the Junior Youth of the Year and Youth of the Year awards. Ridgefield High School sophomore Ronan Hanley was named Junior Youth of the Year, an award introduced in 2021 to provide freshmen and sophomores with the training and experience to move on to the Youth of the Year program. The honor was presented by 2024 Junior Youth of the Year Sophia Murray and Youth of the Year candidate Milo Staples, who had the esteemed privilege of announcing Hanley as this year’s recipient.
Travaglini, humbled by the recognition, took to the microphone and reflected on what the Club and his fellow candidates meant to him. “Anyone could be standing up here,” he said. “I’m so proud of all of them. These are the people I grew up with. It means a lot to walk into the Club and see the next generation of leaders.”
The evening was a testament to the Club’s impact, celebrating not just individual achievements but the collective spirit of a community dedicated to shaping future leaders.
For nearly two decades, the Boys & Girls Club of Ridgefield has honored extraordinary young leaders through the Youth of the Year program. As Associate Executive Director Kristin Goncalves said, “These kids are changemakers.”
None of this would be possible without the unwavering dedication of the Club’s staff, including Mike Flynn, Kristin Goncalves, and Jeff Goncalves, whose work shapes the lives of so many. Their commitment to the Club’s mission ensures that great futures truly do start here.
To learn more about the Boys & Girls Club of Ridgefield, visit www.bgcridgefield.org.