Creating Opportunities for Young People’s Growth

For over 75+ years, the Youth of the Year program has honored and celebrated the nation’s most inspiring teens and their incredible journeys. Stories of outstanding leadership, service, academic excellence, and dedication to living a healthy lifestyle have made Youth of the Year America’s premier leadership and recognition program for teens. These amazing young people represent the voice and spirit of hope for America. Inspiring all kids to lead. To succeed. To inspire.

Each year, one exceptional Club member is selected to be the National Youth of the Year, serving as an ambassador for Boys & Girls Club youth as well as a voice for all of our nation’s young people. Over the decades, these individuals have exemplified the Boys & Girls Club mission and are proof of 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.

Leadership Development

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 Washington, D.C., for the National Youth of the Year Gala & Celebration Dinner, 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 nearly 4 million youth served by Boys & Girls Clubs each year, and all of America’s young people.

India Shyvendahl — 2022 Local Youth of the Year

Melia Gaines — 2020 Local Youth of the Year and 2021 NJ State Youth of the Year winner!

Diana Ramirez-Colon — 2019 Local Youth of the Year

Fradely Delacruz — 2018 Local & NJ State Youth of the Year

“The Youth of the Year experience has helped me grow as a leader in the field of STEM and has given me the opportunity to educate society on how science can champion human rights!” 2022 YOY, India

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Keron Harris — 2023 Runner-Up & 2024 Local Youth of the Year!

Andranae Sam — 2025 Local Youth of the Year