(Dubois, WY) – The Boys & Girls Club of Dubois hosted its 6th Annual Awards & Recognition Breakfast on the morning of June 11 at the National Museum of Military Vehicles.
The event honored the work of the Club and recognized Carolyn Gillette for her service to the Dubois community. Keynote speaker Anthony Robles, whose story inspired the movie Unstoppable, shared his powerful message of perseverance with attendees. Preliminary funds raised totaled 25% of the $205,000 budget.
Marylou Banks presented the Distinguished Service Award to Carolyn Gillette, describing her as “a fierce defender of just causes.” For more than four decades, Carolyn has quietly shaped the fabric of Dubois through education, conservation, and her unwavering support of youth and families. In her remarks, Gillette shared a quote from Margaret Mead that has guided much of her community work: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
Anthony Robles, author and former NCAA wrestling champion, shared his story with the audience. “I didn’t just wrestle against flesh and bones—I wrestled off the mat as well,” Robles said. “We all have challenges in our lives that we wrestle with. We never let those challenges become an excuse.” He shared how this mindset was instilled in him by his mother, who taught him from an early age to face obstacles with determination and grit. Robles connected his story to the mission of the Boys & Girls Club, emphasizing the importance of giving young people—especially those who need us most—the support and resilience to overcome adversity.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming board member Patricia Killinger presented the Foundation Education Award to Dubois senior Sammie Cyrus, who received a $2,000 scholarship to attend Colby Community College in Kansas, where he will pursue his wrestling career. During the event, 2025 2A State Wrestling Champion Sammie had the opportunity to speak directly with keynote speaker Anthony Robles, asking how he perseveres and what advice he has for young people. “Life is like a wrestling match,” Robles responded. “You might encounter a loss, but it’s all about learning from that experience and using it as a lesson to come back even stronger.”
Leah Vermeire, a Club parent and Boys & Girls Club of Dubois advisory board member, shared how vital the Club has been for her family. “Life in Wyoming isn’t for the weak—especially in a remote town like Dubois. We need a support system to make it work, and we couldn’t do it without our Boys & Girls Club.”
Reflecting on the importance of community, longtime supporter Budd Betts summed it up simply: “Dubois is the best town in the best state in the best country in the world.” His words captured the pride and sense of place that defined the morning’s celebration.
The Club extends a heartfelt thank you to the Dubois community for its ongoing support. If you didn’t get a chance to give at the event or would like to schedule a tour of the Club, please contact Ashley Bright, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming.
