Youth of the Year
Youth of the Year is the premier leadership and recognition program of Boys & Girls Clubs and the highest honor a Club teen can receive. The program celebrates young people who demonstrate exceptional leadership, service, academic excellence, and commitment to health and well-being.
Each year, outstanding teens from local Clubs across Connecticut participate in the Youth of the Year process, sharing their personal stories, leadership journeys, and future goals. The young person selected as Connecticut Youth of the Year serves as the official youth ambassador for Boys & Girls Clubs across the state and advances to regional and national competitions.
The Impact of Youth of the Year
Youth of the Year is more than an award: it is a leadership development journey that elevates young people as voices, advocates, and role models for their peers and communities across Connecticut.
Through the program, teens strengthen leadership skills, develop their public voice, and step into visible roles that build confidence, credibility, and purpose — representing not only themselves, but the strength and impact of Boys & Girls Clubs statewide.
Each year, the Connecticut Youth of the Year:
Serves as a statewide youth ambassador for Boys & Girls Clubs
Advances to regional and national Youth of the Year competitions
Engages with business, civic, and nonprofit leaders
Inspires younger Club members to lead, serve, and succeed.
Connecticut Youth of the Year honorees exemplify what’s possible when young people have access to safe spaces, supportive mentors, and opportunities to lead. They are resilient, driven, and prepared to succeed in college, career, and civic life.
Preparing Teens to Lead and Succeed
Through the Connecticut Youth of the Year program, teens gain:
- Leadership development opportunities
- Public speaking and storytelling experience
- College and career readiness preparation
- Scholarship opportunities
- Mentorship from community and business leaders
- Statewide and national recognition
- The opportunity to represent Connecticut at both regional and national levels
Together, these experiences help prepare young leaders to succeed in school, career, and life — while building confidence and advocacy skills
Connecticut Youth of the Year Sponsors
The Connecticut Youth of the Year program is made possible through the generous support of corporate and community partners who are committed to empowering the next generation of leaders.
Title Sponsors
Supporting Sponsors
A National Leadership Platform
For more than 75 years, Youth of the Year has recognized exceptional young leaders across the country. The National Youth of the Year serves as the official teen spokesperson for Boys & Girls Clubs of America, representing millions of Club youth nationwide and advocating for issues that matter to young people.
Connecticut’s Youth of the Year advances onto this national stage — bringing our state’s youth voice into the national conversation.
National Youth of the Year Sponsors
Signature Sponsor
Blue Door Sponsor
Diamond Sponsors
