Yarieliz L. | Ed Robson Family Branch
After living her entire life in Puerto Rico, Yarieliz moved to Phoenix with her mom, stepdad, and younger brother in 2019. Yarieliz lost close family members and two homes due to Hurricanes Irma and Maria, and her family eventually made the difficult decision to leave the rest of their relatives and move to a safer environment without the threat of natural disasters.
Adjusting to life in the United States proved difficult for Yarieliz as she struggled to find her identify after such immense change – but then came the Club. She and her brother joined the Ed Robson Family Branch because their mom needed a place for them while she worked, and Yarieliz quickly found friends, fun, and opportunities. Club staff and peers helped her cope with the loss and tragedy she had experienced, build resilience and confidence, and become the version of herself that she always wanted to be.
At the Club, Yarieliz enjoys fine arts programs, studying with her friends and classmates, and playing pool! An avid theatre performer, Yarieliz aspires to graduate – she is currently a junior at North Canyon High School – join the military, and get her education in fine arts.
Q: Where do you think you would be without the Boys & Girls Club?
Without Boys & Girls Club, I would be sitting on my bed napping and not caring so much about my grades or my future. I would be in a mindset where I would be questioning “How did I get through the whole day without falling asleep?” The Club is such a good way to stay motivated to do your homework assignments, study, or just get extra work off your hands.
Q: Whom would you like to have dinner with and why?
I would like to have dinner with my deceased dad because we would be able to catch up on what’s happened in our lives and have a deep conversation about everything I would’ve liked to ask him while he was alive.
Q: What is your favorite thing about High School?
My favorite thing about high school is the musical/performing arts activities. I can express my creativity and my passions with people with the same type of taste.
Q: What’s your favorite quote or saying?
“I am not giving away my shot.” - The musical Hamilton
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