Boys & Girls Clubs in New Jersey Announces the 2026 State and Military Youth of the Year Winners
Boys & Girls Clubs in New Jersey proudly announced the 2026 New Jersey State and Military Youth of the Year winners at its annual Youth of the Year Reception, held at Montclair State University on May 12, 2026.
The evening celebrated 15 exceptional young leaders from Boys & Girls Clubs across the state, recognizing their achievements in leadership, community service, academic excellence, and commitment to healthy lifestyles. Collectively, the finalists were awarded more than $50,000 in scholarships to support their educational journeys and future goals.
Celebrating New Jersey’s Future Leaders
Youth of the Year is Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s premier youth leadership recognition program, celebrating inspiring teens and their dedication to academic success, healthy lifestyles, character, and service. The program represents the culmination of months of preparation, mentorship, and personal growth, including a full day of rigorous interviews for the outstanding finalists.
Meet the 2026 New Jersey Youth of the Year Finalists
Please enjoy these powerful videos highlighting inspiring stories of hope, resilience, leadership, and achievement from New Jersey’s exceptional Youth of the Year finalists. These remarkable teens embody the core values of Boys & Girls Clubs and represent the bright future of our communities.
- NJ Youth of the Year finalists from Atlantic City, Camden County, Clifton, Cumberland County https://youtu.be/Hm2qTmFkGDw?si=qrfasX6rVCAec57d
- NJ Youth of the Year finalists from Garfield, Hawthorne, Hudson County, Lower Bergen County Clubs https://youtu.be/OxBEX-ryPSE?si=taJA5ADDxTtGkLYu
- NJ Youth of the Year finalists from Mercer County, Monmouth County, Newark, Northwest New Jersey https://youtu.be/acb3_Lzcarc?si=UPvxZiY-LVomADl6
- NJ Youth of the Year finalists from Union County, McGuire Youth Programs, Dix Youth Programs https://youtu.be/X27ZOKR9b80?si=NEz18M2G1cP0hDbX
The New Jersey Youth of the Year program would not be possible without the support of our generous sponsors and partners. Their commitment helps create brighter futures and expanded opportunities for Boys & Girls Club youth across New Jersey.
A special thank you to our Legacy Partner, DPR Foundation, and our Presenting Sponsors, Amazon and BRAM Auto Group, whose leadership and generosity continue to make this program possible.
With the support of our state and national partners, Boys & Girls Clubs in New Jersey is proud to award more than $50,000 in educational scholarships annually through the Youth of the Year program.
Scholarship Awards
- Each Youth of the Year honoree receives a $2,000 scholarship
- The Top 3 Runners-Up each receive $3,500
- The New Jersey Military Youth of the Year receives a $6,000 scholarship
- The New Jersey State Youth of the Year receives a $12,500 scholarship
Congratulations to all of the 2026 Youth of the Year finalists for their extraordinary accomplishments and for exemplifying the strength, talent, and promise of New Jersey’s next generation of leaders.
Thanks to our Sponsors
