What is Youth of the Year?

Youth of the Year takes place in November and is our premier youth recognition program for Club members. We recognize Members of the Year from each of our locations, along with the Carole Downing Volunteer award, and the Athlete of the Year Award. Our teen finalists, chosen from our Teen Services members, will share their personal stories of hard work and success. One of our teen finalists will be chosen by a selection of panelists to represent BGCSV as the Youth of the Year.

The 2025 Youth of the Year is sponsored by the Ted Cutler Memorial Scholarship. The Ted Cutler Memorial Scholarship was established in 2022 by Ted’s wife, Gemma Gallovich, in memory of Ted and his generous spirit. During his life, Ted gave generously to many Sonoma charities throughout the years knowing his dollars would have way more impact within this small community than anywhere else. It is in this spirit that the Ted Cutler Memorial Scholarship is established to positively impact the lives of teens from Sonoma Valley. 

Who Are our Youth of the Year Candidates?

We recognize a Member of the Month at each of our BGCSV school sites, as well as a teen Member of the Month. From these 12 teens, four of them are selected to be Youth of the Year candidates. Youth of the Year candidates are high school students who have shown a significant arc of change. Many of them face tremendous personal challenges at home and school; their struggles and accomplishments often aren’t known or acknowledged outside of the Club. On this very important evening, we honor their commitment to overcoming adversity to live a positive, triumphant life.