Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana (BGCGNWI) held its annual Youth of the Year event last night, an inspiring evening honoring exceptional teen Club members for their outstanding leadership, service, academic excellence, and commitment to their Club and community. This highly anticipated annual event, with Presenting Sponsors Toyota of Merrillville, Powers Health, and M.E. Simpson Co., Inc. took place at Avalon Manor in Merrillville, Indiana.
Youth of the Year is Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s premier leadership development program, celebrating young people who have demonstrated resilience, leadership, and a deep dedication to making a positive impact. The nine teens honored this year have shown extraordinary determination in overcoming challenges, excelling academically, and leading efforts to improve their Clubs and communities.
“I couldn’t be prouder of all our candidates,” shared Mike Jessen, President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana. “They have been working hard for months preparing for this night, working with their mentors to write their speeches, preparing resumes, and learning about professional dress and etiquette. Sharing their stories, challenges, and aspirations to a packed room of over 350 people is a testament to their courage. You could feel the love and support in the air last night, and it’s a reflection of our mission in action.”
Throughout the evening, guests heard firsthand accounts from the honorees about their journeys and dreams. One exceptional finalist, James Adams Jr., a 17-year-old who attends the Hammond Club, was named the 2025 Youth of the Year and will go on to compete at the State level in April, with hopes of advancing to the Regional and National competitions with Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
“I feel like I have everybody counting on me and looking at me, knowing that I have to achieve this, and finally I’m able to fulfill their dreams and make them proud. I’m on cloud nine; it feels beyond fantastic. I am amazed at everybody I met along the way, too. It's just a wonderful program and it feels amazing to do this,” said 2025 Youth of the Year winner James Adams Jr.
Attendees had the opportunity to support Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana’s life-changing programs, which provide mentorship, academic support, and leadership development for thousands of young people across the region.
The event also featured BGCGNWI's PALS group of young professionals who helped mentor the teens, with PALS member Ben Blohm serving as master of ceremonies. Guest speakers included board member Jason Lammertin and Portage Club Director Gerald Watt. The Youth of the Year panel of judges included representatives from Boeing, Natron Corporation, Porter County Career and Technical Education, Sage Popovich Inc., and Terry's Discount Windows & More LLC.
Those interested in supporting the mission of Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana may do so by visiting bgcgreaternwi.org/give.
For more information about the 2025 Youth of the Year event, including a comprehensive list of sponsors, please visit bgcgreaternwi.org/2025yoy.
