Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware's Youth of the Year Program

It’s that wonderful time of the year again where the Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware proudly celebrate the incredible achievements, stories, and leadership of our youth through the annual Youth of the Year competition.

Taking place at the Chase Center on the Riverfront, this inspiring evening will bring together supporters, families, and community members to honor the remarkable teens who represent the very best of our Clubs. The night will begin with a cocktail hour, followed by programing, student performances, and words from government officials. At the end of the night, one outstanding finalist will be named the George Krupanski Jr. Delaware Youth of the Year.

The Youth of the Year program is a cornerstone of the Boys & Girls Club experience, offering teens the opportunity to showcase their talents, share their personal journeys, and reflect on how the Clubs have shaped their growth and future aspirations. Each finalist has gone through a comprehensive selection process. They compose three personal essays, followed by a selection weekend event held at the beach where finalists present a formal speech and a panel interview, all judged by a variety of Delaware community leaders. These pieces all demonstrate not only their achievements, but their resilience, character, and vision for the future of Delaware’s upcoming youth.

The Youth of the Year tradition has long been a source of pride for Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware, previously held at The Queen and now continuing to grow at the Chase Center. It not only highlights the achievements of today’s youth but also honors a legacy of alumni who have gone on to make lasting impacts, such as Larry Lambert, now a member of the Delaware House of Representatives and former art teacher at the Claymont Club, and Blake Saunders, a content creator, entrepreneur, and brand ambassador for Boys & Girls Club of Delaware.

Tickets and additional sponsor opportunities are available to purchase on our website.

More than just a competition, Youth of the Year is a celebration of growth, opportunity, and the bright futures being built every day within our Clubs. We look forward to honoring these outstanding young leaders and crowning this year’s winner while continuing a tradition that uplifts and inspires generations to come.