Boys & Girls Clubs Military Youth of the Year Program

The Defense Department is committed to supporting the overall well-being of military families and offers a variety of programs and services to help military-connected youth and teens navigate the challenges of military life and thrive. From education and arts classes to recreation, fitness, leadership and workforce development, youth centers offer youth and teens a place to connect with peers and mentors, build confidence and learn the skills they need to live their best lives.

For more than 30 years, the DOD has partnered with Boys & Girls Clubs of America to offer additional support programs at youth centers in military installations across the world. Continuity of programming between installations can help children, youth and teens feel part of the military community and make the transition to a new installation smoother.

Since 1947, BGCA has hosted a Youth of the Year program to recognize 14-18 year olds for exceptional character, citizenship, academic success and community service. In 2013, the Military Youth of the Year program was started to celebrate outstanding military-connected youth and teens.

Military Youth of the Year overview

Military-connected teens who have demonstrated exceptional character and accomplishments and are prepared to meet the challenges of adolescence and adulthood can compete in installation, state and regional competitions. The National Military Youth of the Year winner advances to a final round joining five regional Youth of the Year winners from traditional Boys & Girls Clubs to compete for the honor of National Youth of the Year.

Military Youth of the Year highlights

The Military Youth of the Year program offers scholarships and recognition opportunities for military-connected teens.

Military Youth of the Year scholarships include:

• State Military Youth of the Year winners each receive a $2,500 scholarship and participate in regional competitions. Six regional Military Youth of the Year winners each receive $20,000 (for a total award of $22,500 from the state and regional levels).
• The National Military Youth of the Year winner will receive $20,000 (for a total award of $42,500 from the state, regional and national levels).
• The National Youth of the Year receives a $25,000 scholarship, renewable for four years up to $100,000.

The National Military Youth of the Year advances to the National Youth of the Year competition, and also serves a one-year term as the military youth spokesperson for the Defense Department, the military services and the Boys & Girls Clubs.

For more information about the Military Youth of the Year program, download this Military Youth of the Year fact sheet.

Visit Boys & Girls Clubs for more information about the overall National Youth of the Year program.

Military Youth of the Year video

Listen to military youth talk about the powerful, positive impact youth centers and programs like Military Youth of the Year have had on their lives.

Boys & Girls Clubs of America National Military Youth of the Year

Learn more about military youth programs and centers

Military youth centers and programs offer an array of recreational and educational opportunities for military-connected youth. From STEM, art and music activities to sports, summer camps, leadership and workforce development, there is something for youth of all interests and abilities. Learn more about military youth and teen programs.

Questions?

If you have questions about installation child and youth programs or need help locating resources in your community, Military OneSource consultants are available 24/7 to answer your questions and help connect you with the support you need. Call 800-342-9647, use international dialing options or schedule a live chat.