Shelton, CT — The Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley is proud to announce Gianna J. as the 2026 Youth of the Year, the organization’s highest honor recognizing an outstanding teen who exemplifies leadership, service, academic success, and dedication to living a healthy lifestyle.

Gianna, representing the Raymond P. Lavietes Clubhouse, was selected following a final round of interviews with a panel of community leaders and supporters of the Club. She was chosen alongside fellow finalist Jayden W., representing the Joel E. Smilow Clubhouse. Both candidates demonstrated exceptional commitment to the mission and values of the Boys & Girls Club, making the final decision a difficult one for judges.

As the 2026 Youth of the Year, Gianna will now advance to represent the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley at the Connecticut State Youth of the Year competition, part of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America movement.

A dedicated Club member for 10 years, Gianna is currently a senior at Ansonia High School and plans to attend college in the Fall, where she intends to pursue a degree in Social Work.

Gianna describes herself in two words: resilient and compassionate- qualities that have guided her throughout her journey at the Club and in her community.

Her leadership style reflects the traits she values most: being an effective listener, a strong time manager, and a self-motivator.

Gianna’s impressive resume includes serving as a Boys & Girls Club Youth Development Professional since 2024, being an active Keystone Club member since 2023, maintaining status as an honors student, and pursuing her passion as a dedicated dancer.

“Gianna is a leader, a servant to her community, and an inspiration to those around her,” said Benjamin Swartz, Lead History Teacher at Ansonia High School.

“Gianna exhibits a quiet resilience that is both powerful and inspiring,” added Jennifer DeLeon, Unit Director of the Lavietes Clubhouse.

“We are incredibly proud of both Gianna and Jayden for their hard work, dedication, and leadership,” said Shaye Roscoe, Chief Executive Officer of the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley. “They represent the very best of what our Club stands for, and we are excited to see them continue to grow as leaders in our community.”

While Gianna will advance to the state competition, both Gianna and Jayden will continue to serve as ambassadors for the Club, sharing their stories and representing the voice of Club youth. The two leaders will also take the stage as speakers at the Boys & Girls Club’s upcoming Service to Youth Awards, taking place on March 26.

A Special Thanks to Our Supporters

The Boys & Girls Club of LNV extends its sincere gratitude to the panel of esteemed judges whose time, dedication, and thoughtful deliberation helped guide this year’s selection process:

• Jimmy Tickey, Office of Congressman Jim Himes

• Hank Baum, Mutual Security Credit Union

• Kelly Shaw, Retired Nurse

• Chuck Hatchett, Motivational Speaker and Entrepreneur

• John DiMatteo, DiMatteo Group Financial Services

• Amy Nathan, BusPatrol

The Club is also deeply grateful to the family of Jimmy Olayos Jr. for their generous contribution to the Youth of the Year scholarships in his honor. This meaningful tradition continues to celebrate Jimmy’s legacy while ensuring our finalists have a truly memorable “Big Day.”

About Youth of the Year

Since 1947, Youth of the Year has been Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s premier recognition program, celebrating the nation’s most inspiring teens. Candidates are evaluated based on their commitment to Health & Well-Being, Character & Leadership, Academic Success, and Life & Workforce Readiness.

The program provides a powerful platform for young leaders to share their stories, advocate for youth, and inspire future generations. Each year, the National Youth of the Year serves as the voice for the more than 3.3 million youth served by Boys & Girls Clubs across the country.

About Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley

For 70 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 thrive. Through impactful programs focused on education, leadership development, and healthy lifestyles, the Club empowers youth to build bright futures.

To view photos of the Youth of the Year event, click here.