Meet Enrique
2026-27 National Youth of the Year
Meet Jonathan
2026-27 National Military Youth of the Year
Honoring and Celebrating
The Nation’s Most Inspiring Teens
National Youth of the Year
Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club kid can receive. The teen selected to be the National Youth of the Year represents Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the voices of millions of Club youth. And for more than 75 years, the Youth of the Year program has recognized young people for their outstanding leadership, service, academic excellence, and dedication to health and wellbeing.
At Boys & Girls Clubs of America, we believe every young person has what it takes to reach their potential. Each day across the nation, we support more than 5,500 Boys & Girls Clubs in providing opportunities and experiences for America’s kids and teens to thrive. Having a place to belong and someone who believes in you can have a powerful impact. Our Youth of the Year are a shining example of this and exemplify what it means to be a Club kid.
Their stories will inspire you.
Your words can encourage them.
2026 National Finalists
2026 National Military Finalists
Take Space & Make Space
Teens today have a lot on their minds — from school and what’s after graduation, to figuring out where they belong. Our 2022 Youth of the Year share how their Boys & Girls Club made a difference, as well their advice for fellow teens.
News & Stories
After spending his formative years at the Youth Center on his military base, Jonathan shared with the Pentagon why every military child should have the same opportunity.
Athlete and aspiring lawyer Brook’Lynn builds community trust through her Boys & Girls Club.
Follow Aryiane’s journey from growing up at her Boys & Girls Club, through loss and rediscovery, to finding her voice as a leader.
Enrique found belonging at the Boys & Girls Club. Now, he’s teaching and advocating for more young students in his community.
Holden first saw himself as a leader at the Boys & Girls Club. Follow his journey from community food advocate to graduating with a CEO mindset.
Nianti’s Boys & Girls Club gave her a support system when she needed it most. Now, she’s caring for more kids as an aspiring pediatrician.
