BGCVP Youth of the Year
Youth of the Year Program
The BGCVP Youth of the Year Program is a prestigious recognition and scholarship program that celebrates local youth’s achievements. The program is open to Juniors and Seniors who attend a school on the Virginia Peninsula and are members of BGCVP. The Youth of the Year serves as a representative and ambassador for BGCVP and, where qualified, may compete in the BGCA National Youth of the Year Competition at state, regional, and national levels. The BGCVP Youth of the Year Program utilizes both in-house and national program requirements. Not all candidates will qualify under the national program guidelines.
Since 1947, Youth of the Year has been Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s premier recognition program, celebrating Club members’ extraordinary achievements. Each year, one exceptional Club member is selected to be the National Youth of the Year. This person serves as an exemplary ambassador for Boys & Girls Club youth and as a strong voice for all our nation’s young people.
The journey to being named National Youth of the Year begins locally and proceeds to the state, regional, and national levels. To achieve the title of Youth of the Year on any level, Club members must embody the values of leadership and service, academic excellence and healthy lifestyles.
Youth of the Year Candidate Eligibility:
- Must complete BGCVP Application for Participation.
- Must be aged 16 years or older and a Junior or Senior in High School.
- Must provide state-issued driver’s license or learner’s permit and birth certificate.
- Must be a member of BGCVP and participate in at least 100 hours per calendar year or become a member and volunteer a minimum 100 hours per calendar year in the Clubs.
- Must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Must be involved in community activities and be in good standing in all outlets.
Some Youth Benefits of the Youth of the Year Program
- Scholarships for top-three finishers.
- First Place: $10,000
- Second Place: $5,000
- Third Place: $2,500
- Each candidate receives a MacBook or equivalent device.
- Each candidate receives a $500 participation stipend.
- Each candidate receives public speaking training, resume guidance, a letter of recommendation, and more.
Youth of the Year Mentorship
The Youth of the Year Mentorship Program stands as a beacon of support and guidance, meticulously crafted to nurture, and empower the remarkable candidates vying for the prestigious title of BGCVP’s Youth of the Year. It serves as a dynamic platform, not only aiming to propel these exceptional young individuals towards victory in the local competition but also to pave their path towards success on broader stages, including the State, Regional, and National Competitions.
Through personalized mentorship, comprehensive training, and unwavering encouragement, this program cultivates the leadership skills, self-confidence, and resilience needed to excel in every facet of their journey. Each candidate is carefully paired with a dedicated mentor, a seasoned champion committed to providing invaluable guidance and support every step of the way. Together, they embark on a transformative journey of growth, empowerment, and endless possibilities, laying the foundation for a future filled with boundless achievement and impact.
From refining resume-building skills to mastering the art of public speaking and speech writing, our professional mentors provide invaluable support every step of the way. Additionally, candidates benefit from tailored interview preparation and exclusive professional shadowing opportunities.
The Youth of the Year Mentorship Program is open to businesses and organizations on the Virginia Peninsula and throughout the region. This is an initiative of the Youth Development Committee and the BGCVP Board of Directors.
