Emelia Pendergraft Named Washington State Youth Of The Year: First-ever Boys & Girls Clubs Of Southwest Washington Teen To Earn The Statewide Honor (Photo) - 04/09/26

VANCOUVER, WA. — Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington (BGCSW) is proud to announce that Emelia Pendergraft has been named the Washington State Youth of the Year, the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can achieve at the state level. Emelia is the first teen from BGCSW to receive this prestigious recognition.

Youth of the Year is Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s premier leadership recognition program for teens, honoring young people who exemplify academic success, strong character and citizenship, and a commitment to healthy lifestyles. Each year, select teens advance through local and state competitions for the opportunity to represent their region and ultimately compete for the National Youth of the Year title.

As Washington State Youth of the Year, Emelia represents not only BGCSW, but Club teens across the entire state. She will go on to represent Washington state at the Boys & Girls Clubs of America Pacific Region Youth of the Year competition, taking place in Phoenix, Arizona this May.

"Emelia leads with heart, courage, and purpose," said Mikaela McInroy, Marketing & Communications Manager at BGCSW and one of Emelia’s mentors. "She consistently lifts up those around her and represents the very best of what it means to be a Club teen. We are so proud to see her recognized at the state level."

Through the Youth of the Year program, Emelia has earned $3,500 in scholarships so far to support her future education. She plans to attend a bachelor’s granting university next fall and major in Business, with the goal of one day working in the nonprofit sector. 

"Club has helped shape who I am today," said Emelia Pendergraft. "It’s given me a place to belong, opportunities to grow as a leader, and people who believe in me. I’m honored to represent Washington and my Club."

BGCSW serves more than 600 youth every day across multiple Club sites, providing safe spaces, caring mentors, and life‑enhancing programs that empower young people to reach their full potential.

Community members who would like to support local youth and programs like Youth of the Year can learn more at mybgc.org.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington
Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington exists to empower all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible community members. Since our founding in 1999, we have been committed to providing a safe and positive environment where young people can learn, grow, and thrive.

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