A teenager in Syracuse is being honored for his work with the Boys & Girls Club. His leadership extends beyond the organization to his family at home.
Dominique Agee, 17, is adjusting to the accolades.
“It’s weird,” Agee said.
He represented Syracuse at the Boys & Girls Club of America, New York State Youth of the Year Competition at Siena College last month.
“At first it was just for school and then I stayed," Agee said. "It’s fun because of the kids, they’re nice kids, it’s not like they are bad kids. We got good kids.”
Agee has daily duties in the Boys & Girls Club kitchen, the game room and provides homework tutoring. And while he didn't win the Youth of the Year Competition, his work was recognized by the Syracuse Common Council. Councilor Susan Boyle read a proclamation saying Agee's mentorship shows what it is like to serve others first.
“Dominique has not only been able to improve his life but his family’s lives at home by taking up responsibilities around the house, including cooking for his younger siblings while his mother works long hours,” Boyle said.
And Agee’s mom, Camisha Bacon, said she feels a little better about how she is doing as parent.
“As a single mom and having him young, it was really hard," Bacon said. "As parents you want to know that you’re doing a good job. It’s been a great year as a parent and I’m just very proud.”
Agee will be taking his cooking skills to Jefferson Community College in Watertown where he will study culinary arts and business administration.
