by Grace McGovern
With more than 15 years of experience working in youth service, it would be hard not to call Mike Donnelly a hero. And to the boys and girls of the Bloomington-Normal community, he is just that: a hero, and even more importantly, an advocate.
A graduate of the MCLP Class of 2010, Mike was awarded the 2016 Youth Advocate Award on October 23, 2016. A part of the YiCU Service Awards, this award recognizes individuals who dedicate their lives to serving, encouraging and inspiring youth in the community.
Mike began his career as a participant in the YouthBuild program, and quickly gained a reputation for his skill in advocating for young people and their families. Currently, he is overseeing a community collaboration between several organizations as the Director of Teen Services and Community Partnerships at the Boys and Girls Club.
Mike states that his goal is to become an accountability partner for the young people he serves as they strive for greatness, while also advocating on their behalf in order to bring understanding to their struggles and obstacles.
We are proud to have such an impactful and engaged leader as a part of MCLP. Congratulations on behalf of MCLP and on behalf of the community as a whole!