My name is Aaliyah Smith, and I am honored to receive the Youth of the Year award.

My life before the Ranch was not easy. I did not have enough guidance, structure and support. I felt abandoned and I did not have much hope for a successful future. I desired to be taught to have loving and meaningful relationships with others. These are all essential needs that I believe that all children should be given. All of those essential needs were met when I came to the Georgia Sheriffs’ Boys Ranch.

I came to the Ranch in 2017 when I was fourteen years old. My experience at the Ranch was better than I expected. I felt supported and cared for by my house parents and the staff here. I felt that all my needs were met here, and I’m very thankful to all the supporters of the Ranch for making that possible.

Also, I’ve had a good experience with tutoring, which has made my academic progress much better than it was before I came to the Ranch. As a recent high school graduate, I’ll be attending Wiregrass Technical College in the fall to study nursing. My goal is to become a registered nurse so that I’m able to care for others in need.

I want you all to know that I’m very grateful for all of your support!