CASPER, WY — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming (BGCCW) announced eleven outstanding young leaders as finalists for its 2026 Youth of the Year competition. The finalists, all active club members aged 14 or older, will compete Sep. 9‑10 for the title and an $8,000 scholarship funded by the BGCCW Foundation, which was endowed by the late Ruth R. Ellbogen.
Program background and purpose
Since its national launch in 1947, Youth of the Year has become the premier recognition program for teen members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. The award celebrates young people who demonstrate leadership, service, and academic achievement while helping them develop practical skills in communication, teamwork, and goal setting that will serve them well beyond their time in the Club.
What the competition entails
To qualify, participants must have been active club members for at least two years and show strong character and academic excellence. The competition process includes a written application, a personal essay, a speech presentation, and a panel interview. Judges will evaluate each finalist on leadership impact, community service, and academic performance.
Quotes from club leadership
“Youth of the Year gives our teens an opportunity to step forward, share their stories, and show what they are capable of,” said Derek DeBoer, Vice President of Operations at BGCCW. “These young people have put in the work to reach this point, and we are proud to give them a platform to be recognized for their leadership, accomplishments, and commitment to their communities.”
Event details and awards
The finalists will present their speeches and interviews at the 28th Annual Awards & Recognition Breakfast, honoring Bob & Celia Kirkwood, on Sep. 16, 2026, at the Ford Wyoming Center. The winner will advance to the Wyoming State Youth of the Year competition in Cheyenne and receive an $8,000 scholarship. The runner‑up will receive $5,000, and each of the remaining nine finalists will be awarded $750.
The breakfast begins at 6:30 a.m. Attendance is free, though guests are encouraged to make a meaningful contribution to support BGCCW programming. Tables can be reserved at bgccw.org/events. For more information about the Youth of the Year program or the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming, visit bgccw.org or call (307) 235‑4079.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
