Gino Binkert had a wayward brother and was teased at school, but today he has left that life behind him as he jets to New York to compete for the title of New England Youth of the Year.

The 18-year-old Perry High School graduate has already won the Pennsylvania title, sponsored by the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. The competition recognizes those who have overcome hardship to stay on the road to higher education. This is only the second time a Sarah Heinz House member has won the honor in its 106-year history.

Mr. Binkert was president of the Heinz House's two leadership programs, and holds a part-time job there.

"I tell my own boys that I want them to be like Gino when they grow up," said Charlie Chmura, director of operations at the Heinz House. "His selfless attitude and candor set him apart."

Mr. Binkert has also overcome many obstacles, which is a quality that judges look for in addition to his community work and leadership skills.

When he was younger, he used to be teased about his weight; at the Heinz House, he excelled in sports, often coaching teams of younger students.

He said that he made some "bad decisions" as a young teenager, but decided that he did not want to follow in his brother's footsteps when he saw the consequences of his actions.

Next year, Mr. Binkert will be a freshman at Slippery Rock University, where he will study to be a teacher.