Taylor Hildack with Boys & Girls Club American Idol winners. (Photo submitted)
By Karissa St. Pierre
Marketing & Development Director
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield
Youth members at the Boys & Girls Club recently had the opportunity to sing their hearts out in front of local superstar Taylor Hildack. Hildack was the “celebrity judge” at this years Boys & Girls Club American Idol competition.
She recently appeared on American Idol during a preliminary audition segment. Approximately 63 youth tried out for Club Idol, and 17 made it to the final performance. Taylor sang at the beginning of the competition and encouraged each child to try their best, making sure to remind them that whether they win or not, they should keep practicing.
During one members performance, a technical issue caused the backing track for the song she chose to cut out. All the youth in the room demonstrated what it means to be a Club member by using their feet and hands to keep the beat for their fellow Idol finalist, so that she could finish her song. The youth were in competition with each other, but they realized that helping a friend in need will always mean more than winning or losing.
At the end of the event the Club presented Hildack with a trophy for her help as a judge. One team and four individual members received trophies for their performances.
Art programs such as Club Idol nurture members’ self-esteem, and encourage them to reach their full potential by providing a safe space where they can explore their talents. Youth members develop a sense of competence and cultural awareness that empowers them to become confident, caring and productive adults.
To learn more about programs being offered at the Boys & Girls Club, or to find out how you can volunteer or get your child involved, please visit our website www.bgcwestfield.org, or call the Club at 413-562-2301.
