By Karishma Gabriel, TG Co-op Student

Look up in the sky! It's a bird, it's a plane! No! It's Dean Lee! Who is he? As a volunteer with the Boys & Girls Club in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia and Chairman of the National Youth Council, Dean Lee is truly a superhero to the kids and adults he encounters each day.

Dean's long association with the Club began when he was a three-year old in the pre-school program. He was hooked and became a regular member, then later a youth volunteer at the Club. "He's been a member since he was three...and has developed into a fine young man. He's a good student, likes sports and holds down a part-time job. He's a well-rounded kid with a beautiful personality," says Roy Adair, Executive Director of the Dartmouth Boys & Girls Club.

"As an only child, the Club gave me the chance to make friends. It's a real friendly environment. When I'm not at home or in school, I'm at the Club. It's like my second home," says Dean.

Dean was raised by his mom, who had a "very positive influence" on him and who instilled in her son the values of discipline and hard-work. "She always encouraged me to keep going and not give up, to stay positive and overcome any barriers."

Dean is also Chairman of the National Youth Council, the brainchild of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Canada. The NYC strives to give "equal representation to youth," across the country. "The NYC believe in the process of youth empowerment and are committed to providing a voice to be heard on a national level," Dean explained. The Council's aim is to ensure that young people are involved in contemporary political and social issues affecting youth.

"I AM YOUTH, HEAR ME ROAR!!!!!!"

Dean was picked as the 1995 poster boy for the United Way. His biggest thrill is being a role model for kids: "I'm noticed whenever I go out. Little kids tell me they want to have their picture up, too. And I just tell them, keep reaching for the top and maybe one day you'll be someone else's role model."

Dean credits his mom, the Club and the NYC for his growth and development. The 18-year old is presently at Dartmouth High School and is looking to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Psychology and eventually a Masters in Education and Social Work. Ultimately, Dean wants to "give back" to the community that has given him so much. "Even if I go away to study, in the States or in Ontario, I'll come back to Dartmouth and the Boys & Girls Club because they really helped me out."

So who is Dean Lee? He's motivated, active, intelligent, a positive role model and just a really nice guy! Look for Dean Lee action figures, coming soon to a store near you!

Want some more info on the National Youth Council?

CLICK HERE!!!!!