福里为美国男孩女孩俱乐部的涉军青少年颁奖

Foley & Lardner continues to build a national partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) to support its national youth leadership development strategy. All the firm’s U.S. offices engage with local community Boys & Girls Clubs on programs and initiatives tailored to community needs, focusing on activating the potential of young people and fostering more inclusive and equitable futures.

As part of our partnership, Foley’s Veterans & Allies Affinity Group was honored to once again participate in BGCA’s prestigious National Military Youth of the Year (MYOY) program. It recognizes military-connected youth, ages 14 to 18, for their dedication to community service, academic achievement, strong character, leadership, and commitment to future goals.

Associate Kelvin Thomas, a veteran of the U.S. Army and Connecticut National Guard, served as a judge for the Midwest Regional MYOY event held in June in Chicago. Partner Taylor Pancake, a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, served as a member of the national judging panel. The 2024-25 National Military Youth of the Year Taylor R. was announced at the gala on August 8 in Washington, D.C.

The evening before the gala, Foley hosted a vibrant networking event in our Washington, D.C. office, bringing together the five regional MYOY 2024-25 finalists, four Youth of the Year alumni, and dozens of other attendees. This gathering included a unique career exploration opportunity for the finalists and past winners to interact with Foley Veterans & Allies Affinity Group Members Steve Chameides, Wes Martinez, Patrick McMahon, Frank Murray, and Kel Thomas.

Patrick McMahon, co-chair of the affinity group and veteran of the U.S. Air Force, delivered opening these remarks on behalf of Foley:

“We are honored to welcome these outstanding military youth in our second year of hosting this reception. Foley’s Veterans’ Affinity Group appreciates being part of the growing partnership between Foley and BGCA, and we look forward to hosting this event for many years to come.”

The evening also featured presentations from each of the five regional MYOY finalists and alumni, alongside several representatives from BGCA.

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