The New Jersey State Youth of the Year Program is a unique opportunity for Boys & Girls Club professionals, volunteers and supporters from across the state to come together to celebrate and recognize the achievements of 21 of New Jersey’s finest young leaders.
Each local Boys & Girls Club selects a candidate between the ages of 14-18 years of age to represent his/her Club and participate in an experience of a lifetime. Nominees begin their journey with simple encouragement from Club staff and proceed towards their goal----State Youth of the Year, with determination and hard work.
Throughout the process which includes interviews, essays, presentations and of course, fun, they polish their skills, meet new friends and open their eyes to the endless possibilities that exist before them. Each Youth of the Year nominee brings with him/her various challenges as well as achievements. Each has made a difference in their Club and/or community and each recognizes the difference the Club has made in them.
The state competition begins in late April when the candidates participate in a Leadership Training which prepares them for the competition. Workshops on public speaking and interviewing skills are presented and the teens have an opportunity to bond with like teens from across the state. In May, the local winner’s participation in a formal interview with a panel of impartial judges. At that time judges evaluate the individuals on the criteria described above and select the winner to be announced at the recognition dinner that evening.
The State Youth of the Year Program for many is the culmination of a year of preparation, a time to feel proud and to receive well-deserved recognition. For one, it is a continuance towards an even higher goal, National Youth of the Year. For all, youth, families, friends and supporters it is a memorable and rewarding experience that further demonstrates the magnificent role Boys & Girls Clubs play in developing America’s youth.
Each Youth of the Year receives a $1,500 scholarship from the BGCNJ, 3 finalist receive $3,500 each and the State Youth of the Year receives a $20,000 scholarship WAL*MART.
In July Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Northeast Regional Youth of the Year Competition will take place in New York City. The New Jersey State Youth of the Year will compete against 9 other State Youth of the Year for the title of Northeast Regional Youth of the Year. Each Regional winner will receive a $5,000 scholarship from Boys & Girls Clubs of America and continue on to compete for the title of National Youth of the Year and a $10,000 scholarship award.
The National Youth of the Year will be announced in September at a Congressional breakfast in Washington D.C. In past years, scheduling has permitted the 10 Regional winners to tour the White House and meet the President of the United States. It is one of the most amazing events of the year for Boys & Girls Clubs.
Each year, Boys & Girls Clubs in New Jersey strive to enhance and improve the program and the experience for the youth. The following is the plan for 2008;
Youth Leadership Training: This full day event will consist of various skill building workshops which will prepare candidates for their participation in the Youth of the Year selection process. Former Youth of the Year judges will conduct mock interviews and a nationally know communications coach will work with candidates in small groups. Sponsored by Wal*Mart.
Selection: This year’s initial interviews will take place at the offices at Trenton Marriott, 1 West Lafayette Street, Trenton, May 22nd.
Legislative Lunch: State officials will be invited to meet their local youth of the year during lunch. Our hosts are Speaker Codey and Speaker Roberts from the Senate and Assembly. The event is sponsored by Cablevision.
Capital Activities: Candidates will participate in a tour of the State House and other activities (Governor Photo) which will be finalized at a later date.
Mentoring Experience: Youth will be matched one on one with a volunteer in a profession of their choice. These interactions will provide insight into their selected career choices and first hand advice on steps to take to achieve success. This event is sponsored by Allstate.
Recognition Dinner: The day will conclude at the Trenton Marriott, 1 West Lafayette Street, Trenton. That evening each candidate is recognized for their outstanding achievements. The dinner is sponosred by Wal*Mart.
Scholarships: Each local Youth of the Year will receive a $1,500 educational scholarship and the New Jersey Youth of the Year will receive $20,000.
