Durham Teen Named Salvation Army Club's 'Youth of the Year'

It is the highest honor a club member can receive. The title recognizes outstanding contributions to a member’s family, school, community and club, as well as personal challenges overcome.

Via, 14, is a straight-A student at Hillside High School. He plays point guard for the club’s 13-14-year-old basketball team that will compete for the Durham Parks & Recreation championship this Saturday.

“When some of the teenagers couldn’t afford a field trip to Emerald Pointe, Quantre found a local business that would provide coupons so his peers could join us,” Executive Director Joshua Dorsette said. “During summer camp, while part of the staff was on lunch break, he initiated and helped coach an in-house basketball league to keep the youngsters occupied."

"He is vocal and helps get others engaged during our drug and alcohol education programs. I can always count on him to do his part and more to make our programs effective.”

Via’s sister, Demetrice, was Club Youth of the Year in 2006. She is now a senior at Southern High School, and has been accepted at NC A&T for fall admission.

Via will represent the Durham club in competition aiming toward the “State Youth of the Year” title and a $1,000 scholarship from Reader’s Digest.

State winners will advance to regional competition, where $10,000 scholarships are the prizes. Regional winners compete in September for the “National Youth of the Year” title, which carries an additional $15,000 scholarship and is recognized by the President in an Oval Office ceremony.