When Taylor Goggins first began at the A. R. "Gus" Barksdale Boys & Girls Club, she wasn't quite sure it was the place for her. But all that changed when Goggins found her niche at the Club: volunteering. Since then she's been busy, working as a Junior Staff in the summer, helping at the front desk and tutoring younger students.

Parents and staff alike praise Goggin' service, professionalism and follow-through. She also brings great enthusiasm and energy to her work. When she's not mentoring, Taylor attends many teen programs at the Club. An active member of College Bound, she is learning about what colleges she is interested in attending, preparing for SATs and ACTs, and exploring scholarship opportunities. In addition, she is a dedicated participant of Keystone, focusing on academic success, career preparation, and community service. Goggins manages to juggle these activities with her athletics and academics.

Goggins is a gifted athlete, voted Most Valuable Player of her volleyball team. She also received the Heritage High School Athletic Award. Through College Bound, Goggins has learned of athletic scholarships available for volleyball and hopes to become a scholar athlete at Georgia State University.

Once there, Goggins plans on pursuing a career as a physical therapist, combining her love of helping others with her love of sports.

Goggins thanks her mother for her achievements. She said it's her mom who has taught her to never stop reaching for her dreams.

This year, Goggins, along with winners from 17 other Boys & Girls Club locations, will be honored at the annual Youth of the Year Dinner and Awards Ceremony on November 6 and compete for the title of Metro Atlanta Youth of the Year.

"I'm so proud of our Youth of the Year candidates. These teens are living proof that we have the power to make real change," said Missy Dugan, president and CEO of Metro Atlanta Boys and Girls Club.