Shelton, CT — The Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley is proud to present the 2025 Youth of the Year Experience, taking place on Thursday, March 6, 2025. This prestigious event celebrates exceptional young leaders who have demonstrated outstanding character, academic excellence, service, and dedication to their Club and community.
Since 1947, the Youth of the Year program has honored and elevated the voices of the nation’s most inspiring teens. The program is Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s premier leadership and recognition initiative, shaping future leaders who advocate for youth and inspire others through their personal stories of growth and resilience.
At this year’s event, top candidates Alleyanna F. from the Joel E. Smilow Clubhouse and Ava B. from the Raymond P. Lavietes Clubhouse will go through a rigorous judging process. One finalist will be named Youth of the Year and go on to represent the Lower Naugatuck Valley at the state competition, with the potential to advance to regional and national levels.
The 2025 Youth of the Year Experience will be moderated by Jimmy Tickey and judged by a distinguished panel of local leaders:
- Jimmy Tickey – Congressman Jim Himes
- Brian Marcucio – MCS Courier
- Melissa Sheketoff – Melissa in the Morning, WICC
- Bobbi-Ann Berglund – Thor Specialties
- Bing Carbone – Modern Plastics
“This event highlights the incredible heart and leadership of our Club members,” said Shaye Rosoe, Chief Executive Officer of the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley. “Youth of the Year is more than an award—it’s a life-changing experience that empowers young people to reach their full potential.”
About Youth of the Year
The Youth of the Year title is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can achieve. Finalists embody the organization’s core values of Health & Well-Being, Character & Leadership, Academic Success, and Life & Workforce Readiness. The National Youth of the Year serves as an ambassador for 3.3 million youth nationwide, advocating for key issues affecting young people and inspiring future generations.
About the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley
For more than 65 years, the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley has provided young people with a safe, supportive environment where they can learn, grow, and succeed. Through life-changing programs focused on education, leadership, and healthy living, the Club empowers youth to build great futures.