Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley Prepares To Award Nearly $54,000 In Scholarships

May 5, 2026

Shelton, CT — The Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley is preparing to award nearly $54,000 in scholarships to 22 deserving members during its upcoming 2026 Scholarship Awards Night on May 27.

This year brings an especially meaningful milestone, with the introduction of two new scholarships that reflect the heart and legacy of the Club community. The Own Your Future Foundation Trade Scholarship, established by the Douglas Family—led by Club alum, Hall of Fame honoree, and Board President Christopher Douglas—will support members pursuing skilled trades.

Additionally, the Edward “Ned” Rydzy Memorial Scholarship, created by Ned’s daughters, Amy and Lori, along with family and friends, will honor Ned’s legacy. Known for his genuine spirit and deep love for the Club, this scholarship ensures his impact will continue to inspire future generations.

As the evening begins, Brian Marcucio, Chair of the Scholarship Committee, will kick off the program, encouraging students to embrace the moment and celebrate all they have accomplished.

Thanks to the generosity of dedicated donors and endowment partners, these scholarships provide graduating Club members—and alumni pursuing higher education—with critical support as they take the next step toward bright, successful futures. Donors, your belief in our youth continues to change lives.

This year’s scholarships are made possible through a combination of long-standing and new funds, including:

  • The Own Your Future Foundation Trade Scholarship (NEW in 2026)
  • Edward “Ned” Rydzy Memorial Scholarship (NEW in 2026)
  • Celebrate Shelton Community Impact & Opportunity Scholarship (NEW in 2025)
  • Marcucio Scholarship Fund (NEW in 2025)
  • Jimmy Olayos Jr. Scholarship
  • Juliana Mazza Memorial Scholarship
  • Karen & Twan Bentlage Scholarship Fund
  • Beth Fortin Family Foundation Scholarship
  • George & Beatrice Ryan Scholarship
  • Raymond P. Lavietes Scholarship Fund
  • George & Margaret Smith Scholarship
  • Coram Gardens Civic Association Scholarship

This year’s scholarship recipients:

Amaryllis M.
Angelis M.
Ashley J.
Ava B.
Bailey W.
Brynn R.
Crishon F.
Emily V.
Emily W.
Gabrielly R.
Gianna J.
Jayden W.
Joseph C.
Mary B.
Maya R.
Mia N.
Nicolette S.
Raisa K.
Sam R.
Sara T.
Shane C.
Veronica B.

To support the Club’s scholarship fund or learn more, visit bgc-lnv.org/donate.