The Boys & Girls Clubs of America Youth of the Year Program is the organization’s premier leadership recognition initiative and the highest honor a Club member can receive. At the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley, a Club kid is selected from both the Smilow and Lavietes Clubhouses as their Youth of the Year. Then, youth are interviewed by a panel of community judges. The judgest ultimately choose who will represent the Club at the Connecticut State Youth of the Year competition, with the opportunity to advance to the regional and national levels. This prestigious title is awarded to a remarkable young person who exemplifies leadership, service, academic excellence, and commitment to a healthy lifestyle.
Youth of the Year nominees serve as inspiring role models and demonstrate that great futures truly begin at the Club. Each year, the celebration culminates in a special dinner where the winner is announced in front of family, friends, and supporters.
The Youth of the Year application is an in-depth process that helps you reflect on who you are and how the Boys & Girls Club has shaped that journey. The packet is designed to challenge you in a positive way, encouraging self-discovery and growth.
In my personal experience competing for Youth of the Year, I’ve been able to dig deeper into what leadership really means to me. It helped me rediscover and recognize all the incredible things I’ve accomplished over the years. I’ve learned that sharing your achievements isn’t bragging—it’s owning your story.
Being named Youth of the Year is a reflection of how much the Club has influenced my character and personal growth. It’s a chance to tell my story as a Club kid and express the deep gratitude I have for everything the Club has done for me. My Club has made so many contributions to support me and my future. I see Youth of the Year as a way to give back—by sharing the story that my Boys & Girls Club helped me write.
To me, being Youth of the Year means my Club believes in me, is proud of me, and trusts me to represent them wherever I go.
Q & A with Alley:
Q: Can you describe a moment during your journey that made you feel especially proud of your growth?
A: One moment throughout my journey that made me feel proud of my growth was my first interview during Youth of the Year. I was sitting across from a panel of judges, each asking different questions about me and my exponential journey. I still remember the feeling when I left the room—I felt accomplished. I knew I wasn’t bragging about myself, just sharing my story and who I was at that time. I was proud of how I answered every question while staying true to myself and my morals.
Q: What advice would you give to a younger Club member who might be interested in becoming Youth of the Year someday?
A: There are so many parts of the Youth of the Year process that make you reflect and question yourself. I would tell younger members that this journey is meant to help you recognize your accomplishments and be proud of who you are. There will be moments of doubt and uncertainty, but if you stay patient and trust your mentors, you’ll come out stronger. Through this process, I’ve learned that I am enough—and that I’m a mentor to the younger members coming up behind me.
Q: Now that you’ve completed the process, what’s next for you, and how will you continue to represent your Club?
A: Now that I’ve nearly completed the Youth of the Year process, I’ll continue my education at Ansonia High School while staying involved with the Club—as both a Club kid and staff member. As the Youth of the Year for the Lower Naugatuck Valley, I plan to keep supporting our Torch Club and proudly represent my title at Club events. I’ll continue to share my story and advocate for the younger members coming up behind me.
Read the 2025 Youth of the Year Announcement Press Release here.
Want to learn more about membership and programming at Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley? Check out our Membership Page and Programs Page.