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Akwesasne Boys and Girls Club president named 'Maytag Dependable Leader' award winner

Posted 3/19/15

AKWESASNE – The Akwesasne Boys and Girls Club president is one of 20 people nationwide named a “Maytag Dependable Leader” award winner, and has received $20,000 for scholarships for club …

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Akwesasne Boys and Girls Club president named 'Maytag Dependable Leader' award winner

Posted

AKWESASNE – The Akwesasne Boys and Girls Club president is one of 20 people nationwide named a “Maytag Dependable Leader” award winner, and has received $20,000 for scholarships for club members.

The award recognizes Julia Skidders and other Boys and Girls Club officials who are “committed to making a difference as dependable and exceptional role models,” the club said in a statement.

This past Friday, March 13, ABGC celebrated with over 100 club members, their families and the community.

Instead of a celebration dinner or lunch, Skidders elected for a “kid party” for all the club members and their families. Festivities started with a presentation and several speakers. The kids sat quietly as Chief Ron Lafrance, Chief Paul Thompson, and April Terrance spoke highly of Julia’s service. Lafrance talked about his days as unit manager prior to his service on Tribal Council, the club said.

“Julia was the backbone of the ABGC organization and the youth they serve,” LaFrance said.

Thompson continued the congratulations with a walk down memory lane, saying he and Skidders served together on the original club board of directors. He complemented Julia for continuing to share their dream with the board, the staff and the youth of Akwesasne, according to the club.

“As long as Julia is involved in the club, it will continue forever because her dedication is endless,” Thompson said.

Terrance finished up the presentation by presenting Skidders with a plaque. Terrance, whose family struggled through her childhood, was the stand out story for the Maytag nomination. Skidders invited this woman into her home to mentor and support her, as if one of her own. This past June, Skidders was able to see this young woman walk across the stage and receive a nursing degree. Terrance gave a tearful thank you.

Skidders is a founding board member for the Akwesasne Boys and Girls Club. For 13 years, she served on the board in various positions, including board president for the past two years.

A mother of five girls, she is a widow and single parent who manages two businesses that she and her late husband founded 20 years ago.

“Rather than letting this adversity defeat her will to succeed, she has committed herself to giving back to the community,” the club said.

Over the years, she has been a volunteer coach and financial supporter of many local youth sports organizations, in addition to her work with the area Boys and Girls Club.