Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Southwest Michigan will host its 2026 Youth of the Year competition on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at the Joel E. Smilow Teen Center in Benton Harbor.
Three outstanding teen candidates will vie for the title of 2026 Youth of the Year, the organization’s highest honor for Club members. The event, themed A Night of Honor, a Future of Impact, will celebrate leadership, academic achievement, service, and character while showcasing the voices and stories of local youth.
Youth of the Year is Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s premier recognition program, honoring young people who exemplify service to Club and community, strong moral character, academic excellence, and public speaking ability. Candidates participate in interviews prior to the event and deliver speeches before a panel of judges and an audience of family, supporters, and community leaders.
The local event is sponsored by Indiana Michigan Power Foundation and the Youth of the Year program is nationally presented by Raymond James.
The selected Youth of the Year will go on to represent Greater Southwest Michigan at the Michigan Youth of the Year competition later this spring.
WHAT: 2026 Youth of the Year Competition
WHEN: Wednesday, February 25, 2026
TIME: 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Doors open at 4:30 p.m.)
WHERE: Joel E. Smilow Teen Center, 190 W. Empire Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI
