
About Youth of the Year
Each year, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Ohio awards its highest honor to one exceptional teen who exemplifies the Boys & Girls Club mission and promotes the Club’s values in his or her community.

Meet Kaylie —
2022 Youth of the Year
Kaylie is a freshman at South High School, and she has been a Club member for 4 years. Kaylie’s defining characteristics are that she is outgoing and intelligent. Kaylie plans to one day pursue a career in social work.
CONGRATULATIONS to all of our candidates!
Youth of the Year (YOY) is Boys & Girls Clubs’ premier recognition program, celebrating members for their outstanding achievement in leadership, service, and academic excellence.

Bethany — Marion
Bethany is a freshman at Harding High School and has been a member of the Club for 7 years. Bethany describes herself as honest and energized. She plans to one day pursue a career in cosmetology.

Dakota — Marion
Dakota is a sophomore at Harding High School and has been a Club member for 7 years. Dakota’s defining characteristics are that he is knowledgeable and caring. Dakota loves video games and dreams of one day pursuing a career streaming them.

Jaiya — South Side
Jaiya is an 8th grade student at Valor Academy. She has been a Club member for 4 years. Jaiya describes herself as both smart and caring. From a young age, Jaiya has dreamed of becoming a doctor and plans to pursue a career in medicine.

K'Aaliyah — R.I.S.E.
K’Aaliyah is an 8th grade student at Dominion Middle School. She has been a Club member for 7 years. K’Aliya describes herself as being determined and strong. She hopes to one day pursue a career in cosmetology.
2022 Jr. YOY Awardees by Market

Natalia — Columbus

Tesslah — Marion

Alana — Newark
2022 Jr. YOY Candidates by Clubhouse
- J. Ashburn Jr.
- Leevaughn
- Serenity
- KIPP
- Randy
- Livingston
- Giovanni
- Louella Hodges Reese – Newark
- Alyza
- Noah
- Shayla
- Marion
- Cameron
- Hailey
- Isabelle
- Jaelynn
- Parker
- R.I.S.E
- Zi’Yonna
- South Side
- Jalik