Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming Announces 2026 Youth of the Year Finalists
CASPER, WY — Eleven outstanding young leaders have been selected as finalists in the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming’s 2026 Youth of the Year competition. On September 9-10, these teens will compete for the title of BGCCW Youth of the Year and an $8,000 scholarship from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming Foundation, endowed by the late Ruth R. Ellbogen.
Since its national launch in 1947, Youth of the Year has become Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s premier recognition program for teen members. The program celebrates young people who demonstrate leadership, service, and academic achievement while helping them build practical skills in communication, teamwork, and goal setting that will serve them well beyond their time in the Club.
“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 the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming. “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.”
Participants must be at least 14 years old, active Club members for two or more years, and demonstrate strong character and academic excellence. The competition includes a written application, personal essay, speech presentation, and panel interview.
This year’s finalists are:
- Angel – Freshman, Kelly Walsh High School
- Brook – Freshman, Natrona County High School
- Brynn – Senior, Natrona County High School
- Daniel – Junior, Natrona County High School
- Derrek – Junior, Kelly Walsh High School
- Hannah – Freshman, Buffalo High School
- Jase – Senior, Heathrow Academy
- Jordynn – Sophomore, Kelly Walsh High School
- Madison – Freshman, Natrona County High School
- Maisey – Junior, Buffalo High School
- Seth – Junior, Natrona County High School
- Aaron Emery – Atlas Energy Solutions
- Dana Murphy – Community Volunteer
- Shawna Johnson – Johnson Restaurant Group
- Nada Kelkawi – Community Volunteer
- Nikki Strickland – Townsquare Media
The Awards & Recognition Breakfast begins at 6:30 a.m. There is no cost to attend, but guests are encouraged to make a meaningful contribution to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming’s programming. Reserve a table 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.
