In Boys & Girls Clubs around the world, caring staff members encourage and support the Clubs members they serve. Through this nurturing environment, many develop sound character, leadership abilities and the willingness to give back to their community. These are the qualities that make a Youth of the Year. They are also some of the most important qualities young people need to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.

Each year participants are chosen on local and state levels, culminating with five regional winners meeting in Washington DC, to compete for the National Youth of the Year honor. One exceptional Club member is selected to be the National Youth of the Year, serving as an ambassador for Boys & Girls Clubs youth as well as a voice for all of our nation’s young people. Over the decades, these individuals have exemplified the Boys & Girls Clubs mission and are proof to the impact Clubs make in transforming and saving kids’ lives. National Youth of the Year winners have achieved success in a variety of industries, including entertainment, politics, business and sports.

Process:

Becoming National Youth of the Year is an exciting and inspiring journey. Each year, thousands of Club teens participate in local, state and regional Youth of the Year events. Six teens, including five regional winners and a national military youth winner, advance to the National Youth of the Year Celebration, where one outstanding young person is named Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s national teen spokesperson. The National Youth of the Year is a role model, leader and advocate for the millions of youths served by Boys & Girls Clubs each year, and all of America’s young people.