At an early age, our 2010 Northwestern Mutual Foundation Youth of the Year for Milwaukee, Tommy Walls decided in order to survive he had to become the leader in his family. Born into a dire circumstance in
Detroit,
Mich., his mother was mentally disabled, HIV positive and addicted to drugs. Although his father also struggled with drug abuse and violence, he kept Tommy alive and thriving until he was sent to prison for what remained of his son’s childhood years. At that time, Tommy made it his objective to change his living situation.
For the next five years, Tommy floated between his mother’s home and those of countless, relatives, friends and the occasional teacher. During especially bad times, he shared responsibility for keeping the household running. As he attempted to manage his home life, Tommy tried to earn the confidence of his teachers and school staff despite a poor attendance record and lack of parental support. Regardless of his living conditions, Tommy knew he had to find a way out, but how he would do it remained unclear.
At a family reunion, Tommy made a decision that would forever change his life. After meeting adult cousins from
Milwaukee, he decided at the age of 14 to leave
Detroit. With permission from his mother, Tommy planned to come for a visit – not having more than a change of clothes with him. Within days he knew this was a better environment for him – an environment where he felt loved, safe and most importantly supported. He knew this was home and decided to stay.
Now with a stable home, the young teen implemented some definite ideas of what he wanted in a family. He started family game night, Sunday dinners actually served in the dining room, and engaging conversations.
Similarly, Tommy also had distinct ideas about the type of student he wanted to be. He immersed himself in his classes, sports and the student governance board at
Marshall
Montessori
High School. He also became an active member of the
Marshall
High School Boys & Girls Club and then later, the Mary Ryan Boys & Girls Club. It’s at the Clubs, where Tommy is known for his enthusiasm, optimism and desire to help his adopted hometown. He’s also active in Upward Bound, and Stein Scholars, both college prep programs, and Keystone Club, a group that focuses on leadership and community service.
Since being named the 2010 Northwestern Mutual Foundation Youth of the Year, Tommy has won two additional titles: 2010 Wisconsin Youth of the Year and Midwest Region Youth of the Year for Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA). Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Club member can receive. It recognizes outstanding contributions to a member’s family, school, community and Boys & Girls Club, as well as personal challenges and obstacles overcome. Walls is among hundreds of local Youth of the Year winners across the country recognized by BGCA for his sound character, leadership skills and willingness to give back to the community.
In the fall of 2010, Tommy will attend
Marquette
University as one of its Urban Scholar Award winners. He will also be traveling to
Washington,
D.C. to compete against four other regional winners for National Youth of the Year. The winner will be installed by President Barack Obama in an Oval Office ceremony.
Tommy exemplifies how Club participation and programming give young people a secure place to grow, be inspired and empowered.
Meet Tommy and hear his moving Youth of the Year Speech from our 2010 Salute to Youth MVP Awards by clicking here.