The Youth of the Year program honors our nation’s most awe-inspiring young people on their path to great futures and encourages all kids to lead, succeed and inspire. The program recognizes and celebrates leadership, academic success, civic responsibility and engagement. Coupled with instilling good character, the Youth of the Year program is an essential part of every Club’s youth development experience.  Youth of the Year candidates demonstrate positive self-esteem and personal growth; serve as ambassadors for the Club and community; and become voices and advocates of the Club experience. Their success is our triumph.

Being named BGCPBC Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Club member can achieve. Local Youth of the Year winners go on to compete on a state, regional and national levels and have the opportunity to win scholarships at the various levels.

In Palm Beach County, thanks to the Mary Alice Fortin Foundation, all Youth of the Year candidates receive a 4-year college scholarship with the county winner receiving a 4-year university scholarship plus room, board, and all fees.

BGCA has joined WWE and the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence to participate in Be A STAR, WWE’s bullying prevention initiative, and its mission to encourage young people to treat each other with respect through education and grassroots initiatives.  The Be A STAR program, focused on social and emotional learning, gives Club members ages 11-13 the tools they need to enhance their learning, decision making, creativity, relationships, and mental health.