Dutchess Family Named ‘2018 International Family of the Year’

A Hudson Valley family has lots to be proud of after being named Family of the Year for 2018

Ryan and Elizabeth Young and their seven children were given the honor by the Knights of Columbus during their Supreme Council meeting earlier this month. The award is given out as a way to recognize "the importance of strong and vibrant families as the cornerstone for the stability of society."

The Youngs live in Poughkeepsie where they both work as physicians’ assistants. Aside from their day jobs, the family also runs Camp Veritas, a summer program for teens in grades 7 to 12  Ryan and Elizabeth's oldest children even help with the camp. Christopher (17), Trinity (15), Grace (12), Mary (9), Justice (8), Faith (2) and Xavier (5 months), are also active members at St. Martins de Porres in Poughkeepsie.

The family was chosen as "Family of the Year" for their community service which includes their participation in the Food for Families program, Habitat for Humanity, Coats for Kids and their church's blood drive.

As for Camp Veritas, the Youngs have taken their small summer camp and grown it into an international program. Since starting in 2008 at Camp Lakota in Orange County, the camp now has locations as far away as Maryland, Florida and Ireland.