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The youth center helped me become more of the person I am today. So without the youth center, I know I wouldn’t be here. So it’s amazing.
– Jonathan, 2026-7 National Military Youth of the Year
The War 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 art 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 DOW 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 teens ages 14-18 for exceptional character, citizenship, academic success and community service. In 2013, the Military Youth of the Year program was established to celebrate outstanding military-connected youth and teens.
Contact your installation youth/teen center to explore youth programs and learn more about Military Youth of the Year, including eligibility, application deadlines and state event dates.
Military-connected teens who demonstrate exceptional character and accomplishments and show they’re ready to meet the challenges of adolescence and adulthood can compete in installation, state and regional competitions. The National Military Youth of the Year honoree advances with five regional Youth of the Year honorees from traditional Boys & Girls Clubs to compete for the title of National Youth of the Year.
The Military Youth of the Year program offers scholarships and recognition for military-connected teens.
In addition to advancing to the National Youth of the Year competition, the National Military Youth of the Year serves a one-year term as military-connected youth spokesperson for the War Department, the military services and the BGCA.
For more information about the Military Youth of the Year program, download this Military Youth of the Year fact sheet.
Visit the Boys & Girls Clubs of America website for more information about the overall National Youth of the Year program.
Listen to military-connected youth talk about the powerful, positive impact youth centers and programs like Military Youth of the Year have had on their lives.
BGCA Military Youth of the Year: Inspiring Authenticity, Confidence and Courage
The Military Youth of the Year experience has helped me grow because I used to be shy and used to be scared of public speaking and I lacked confidence, but when I decided to go out there and push myself to pursue this journey, I’ve grown so much. I’m able to speak in front of hundreds of people. I’m able to advocate for things that matter to me.
– Patrick, 2026-27 Northeast Military Youth of the Year
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’s something for youth of all interests and abilities. Learn more about military youth and teen programs.
Learn more about the National Military Youth of the Year Program from past participants.
Military youth should participate in youth programs because it presents a lot of great opportunities and it helps military youth realize that they’re not alone and that they can have a shoulder to lean on. And the youth center and the community that the youth center fosters is that shoulder.
– Fatimazahra, 2026-27 Midwest Military Youth of the Year
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 questions and help connect you with the support you need. Call 800-342-9647, use international dialing options or log in to start a live chat.
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