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Fairchild youth dances her way to Youth of the Year

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Janelle Patiño
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  A 16 year-old member of the base's Teen Center was recently chosen as Fairchild Youth of the Year for going above and beyond in all areas of her life.

Ashley Gundlach not only has a strong academic background, but she also is active in several extracurricular activities including dance and student council. In addition, she also does volunteer work during her spare time.

Youth of the Year is a program that recognizes a Boys and Girls Club member who serves on a military installation, has overcome enormous odds and demonstrated exceptional character and accomplishments.

"Ashley was chosen for her dedication and willingness to be better at an early age," said Angela Perez, 92nd Force Support Squadron Teen Center supervisor. "Other than having a strong academic background and extracurricular activities, she is also an active member of our leadership club called the Keystone Club. Ashley has also volunteered with our program for more than 250 hours over the summer."

According to Travis Apling, 92nd FSS Teen Center assistant chief, Ashley is very passionate about anything she sets her mind to, and quality is of the utmost importance. He added Ashley strives for perfection in everything she does whether it's academic, dance or helping the center.

As the vice president of the club, Ashley has led several events encouraging more teens and youth to become part of the program.

"She takes a lead role in organizing events and volunteer opportunities including the Food Smart program, campus tours, babysitting classes, anti-smoking campaign and many more," Perez said. "She is a teen mentor who takes time to show new kids around the base and the community."

According to Apling, Ashley's hard work and dedication has made it easy for them to pick her as their Youth of the Year.

"Ashley is always trying to help others while she betters herself during the process," Apling said. "She always has a positive attitude and is willing to volunteer which makes everybody else want to follow in her footsteps."

At such a young age and being in a military family, Ashley has moved a lot and has learned how to make new friends along the way. The Teen Center was a large factor in helping her adjust to the base.

"Ever since I found out about the Teen Center, it has made it easier for me to make new friends and learn about the base and the community," Ashley said. "The center has also given me a big support system; the people here have helped me become a better person inside and out."

According to Ashley, the center is her second home. It's where she gets to enjoy the company of her friends, colleagues and mentors.

"Being a daughter of a military member has forced her to move seven times in her relatively short lifetime. This last move uprooted her prior to her junior year and, once again, her resiliency showed through," said Steffany Gundlach, Ashley's mother. "She quickly found her niche in school and working as a volunteer at the Teen Center. It's very evident that she has a passion for volunteering and helping others."

Ashley's parents Steffany and Col. Scott Gundlach, 92nd Operations Group commander, feel nothing but pride for their child.

"Her father and I are extremely proud," Steffany said. "We are proud of her dedication to school, dance and her passion for volunteering."

Ashley has also received other awards this year that include: The Soroptimist International Northwestern Region for improving the lives of women and girls in local communities, Throughout the World Award for her volunteer work, Youth Employee Skills Program Employee, Young Achievers Award of the Gateway East, Fairchild Youth of the Quarter and she is a member of the National Honors Society.

The base Teen Center provides a safe place for youth and offers experiences to enhance their quality of life, Perez said.

"The Teen Center is here to assist military and civilian personnel in balancing the demands of accomplishing the mission and family life," Apling said. "We do it by managing and delivering a system of quality, available and affordable programs and services for eligible children and youth from eight to 18 years of age."

For more information about the Teen Center and the Keystone Club, call (509) 247-8043 or (509) 247-5601.