February 4th, 2026
6:00pm - 8:00pm
Uptown
YOUTH OF THE YEAR
A GENERAL OVERVIEW
Each year, thousands of teens from Boys & Girls Clubs across the country participate in Youth of the Year at the local, state, and regional levels. From this process, six finalists, which include five regional winners and one National Military Youth finalist, advance to the National Youth of the Year celebration, where one is named Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s National Youth of the Year.
As the organization’s highest youth honor, Youth of the Year recognizes outstanding leadership, service, and character. Finalists reflect on their Club experience, what matters most to them, and how they have overcome obstacles, sharing powerful stories of growth and resilience throughout their journey. From more than 4,000 participants nationwide, only a select few earn the opportunity to stand here tonight, young leaders who embody the mission and future of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley.
Uptown Theater, 2025, BGCNV
SCHOLARSHIPS AND ACCOLADES
RECOGNITION WITH PURPOSE
LOCAL COMPETITION
All participants will receive a $1,000 scholarship, with the Local Youth of the Year earning an additional $1,000.
RECOGNITION
Guest speaker at 4 BGCNV events with local media coverage in a radio and print
SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA COMPETITION
Our local Youth of the Year will move on to compete against candidates from Clubs across central and Northern California for one of three sports to move forward.
RECOGNITION
Recognition in area competition with local media coverage in radio and print
SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED
$9,000 $1,500
STATE OF CALIFORNIA COMPETITION
Finalists from across California will compete for one spot to move forward.
RECOGNITION
Meet and Greet with the Governor, state media coverage in radio, print and TV.
SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED
$4,500
PACIFIC REGION COMPETITION
Finalists from across the Pacific Region will compete for one spot to move forward.
RECOGNITION
Recognition at the regional competition with national media coverage in radio, print and TV. Speaker at the Club’s Regional conference.
SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED $20,000
BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF AMERICA NATIONAL COMPETITION
Six Regional Finalists will compete for the title National Youth of the Year.
RECOGNITION
Meet and Greet with the President. Guest at the Club’s National Conference. National media coverage in radio, print and TV.
SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED
$50,000
TOTAL SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED $85,000
TONIGHT’S EVENT
& TONIGHT’S PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS
Master of Ceremonies: Jaime Gallegos, BGCNV, Executive Director
Judges: Christine Turner, Founding Partner, Justera Global Strategies
Eric Jones, US Congressional Candidate
Liz Seabury, Director, Intervention & Prevention, NVUSD
Joshua Shultz, Superintendent, Napa County Office of Education
Joel Navarro, 2019 Youth of the Year Winner
Julianna Villegas Hart, Board Trustee, NVUSD
Justin Gomez, Financial Advisor, Edward Jones
WELCOME & INTRODUCTIONS
Welcome:
Jaime Gallegos
Josh Sergeson, Teen Services Area Director, BGCNV
Opening Remarks: Schatzi Throckmorton, Board Chair, Napa Valley Vintners
Closing Remarks: Dr. Andrea Clark, Kaiser Permanente
Meet Tonight’s Stars:
Candidate 1: Aileen Cortes Only One You
Candidate 2: Isabella Loo Begins With Belonging
Candidate 3: Sadoc Rojas Solano Hide & Seek
Candidate 4: Mariana Coronado Defined by Resilience
Candidate 5: Andrea Cortes Success on Our Own Terms
Candidate 6: Nayeli Salazar Real Curiosity
Candidate 7: Saul Solano Invest In You
Candidate 8: 15 minute intermission
Audrey Aliga Be Bold
WHO WE’RE SERVING
2,700 REGISTERED MEMBERS. 1,700 CHILDREN ATTENDED EVERY DAY
If we condensed the experiences of the youth we serve, across age, family structure, income, and time in our programs, into one representative story, it would look like this:
The typical Boys & Girls Club of Napa Valley member lives and attends school in Napa. They are part of a family of four, often with a sibling who also attends the Club, and parents who work full-time. Their household earns under $80,000 a year and shares a rented home with extended family or friends. Even with combined resources, finances are tight, and basic needs like stable housing and nutritious food are often uncertain. To make ends meet, parents frequently work multiple jobs and depend on the Club to provide safe, reliable care when school is not in session.
FALL ENROLLMENT
American Canyon Clubhouse 196
American Canyon Middle School
Browns Valley Elementary
Canyon Oaks Elementary
Club 1515 Teen Center
McPherson Elementary
Napa Clubhouse
Junction Elementary
Napa Valley Language Academy
Pueblo Vista Elementary
Redwood Middle School
Middle School
THE HEART OF WHO WE ARE
YOUTH OF THE YEAR JUNIOR
HONORABLE MENTIONS: MEET OUR YOUTH OF THE MONTH
Each month, Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley celebrates young people who shine in our core program areas: Character & Leadership, Education & Technology, Health & Life Skills, the Arts, and Sports, Fitness & Recreation. From these standouts, we name a Member of the Month. Those honorees go on to become Members of the Year for each Clubhouse and school site.
These exceptional youth embody the qualities we look for in future Youth of the Year, the highest honor in our Clubs, and they’re just getting started. These are the young people to watch as they grow, lead, and shape what’s next.
ADAEL REYES MARTINEZ
Napa Junction Elementary
TALIA CRUZ
Napa Valley Language Academy
RORY FERRER
Canyon Oaks Elementary
UNIDOS Middle School LUIS SALAS ZAVALA
NAPA JUNCTION NVLA CANYON OAKS UNIDOS MS
ADAEL REYES MARTINEZ
DAMIAN GARCIA
GUADALUPE ALVAREZ MARTINEZ
NATALIE LUU
ALEENA LOPEZ
DAIRO FLORES
TRISTAN HOANG
ANGELINA VIDAL GOMEZ
MARCEL PINEDA BACA
MAKAYLA GORDILLO
MIA TOMES
MANOLO RAMIREZ
LAURELY VARGAS ZOEY PARKS
VICTORIA HERNANDEZ
BRIAN SALINAS
TALIA CRUZ
HARPER HARKNESS
SUKHI PATEL
ROBBIE HAFFNER
JAYDEN MARES FERMIN
ROGELIO OCHOA
JULIA ANAYA ALVAREZ
ZOE LOYOLA
DAMIAN CASTILLO SANTOS
WANT TO LEARN MORE?
LOURDES "LULU" FOTU
LIAM JON “LJ” TAGUIRAN
KATAI BUCHANAN
RORY FERRER
BRIA’SIMONE MCDOLE
ALEXANDER MEDRANO
ARIANA CORONA
OLIVIA SALCEDA
GERALDYNN AGUILAR
JANETZI MORAN
JOSH HADELER
JULIAN OMEGA-ABASOLO HUMBERTO SEPULVEDA
LILLY MCINTOSH
TIAGO GARCÍA
ISAIAH MORALES
JULLIAN PINEDA
ODETTE MARTINEZ
ABRAHAM TRUJILLO
GENESIS QUEZADA-VALDIVIA VALENTINA TUEROS
AUGUST WILLIAMS
Scan the QR Code and check out the full list of programs we offer. Or visit us online at BeGreatNV.org
JACOB AQUINO
American Canyon Clubhouse
IAN GARCIA McPherson Elementary
AC CLUBHOUSE
ENZO BOUREMA
ELLYANNA ZAVALA
ELIZABETH ZAVALA
ELOISE ROMAN
IAN GARCIA
ALEXA RODRIGUEZ
CASEY SOBY
ALICE KERNAN
AMELIA AVILES
ELEANOR BELL
CORRINE HARRIS
LEANA BOUREMA
PORTER
American Canyon Middle School
EMERY GROGAN
MYA NICKENS
MARIE PORTER
BRANDON PEREZ MARTINEZ
ATHENA PEREZ-ESPINOZA
ISABELLE COFFIN
OLIVIA ROBEY
MARIE PORTER
NAYELI MANZANARES
CAMILLA CUEVAS
KEANU LEE
JONATHAN CULVER
MCPHERSON REDWOOD MS BROWNS VALLEY
MIGUEL SOTO
JONATHAN AGULIAR
SOPHIE ALCANTAR
KENIA RAMIREZ
MICHAEL FROST
YESSENIA BOLANOS
JULIETA HERNANDEZ GARCIA
JAVIER GONZALEZ GUZMAN
GENESIS TORRES PADILLA
IVAN ASCENCIO
ANA OSUNA
ROSE HARRINGTON
MELISSA MARTINEZ
BRANDON SOLORIO
DAMIAN RIVAS
CHRIS VALENZUELA
LORENZO VICTORIO DE LUNA
HENRY BERLOGAR
NATALIA JUAREZ
ISABELLA ALMAGUER
ISABELLA ALAMAGUER
VICTORIA GUTIERREZ
WILLIAM HESS JC PAULINO
MALLORY MOHRLANT, SEBASTIAN ROJAS
ANGEL ESTRELLA RUBIO
KARLA DOMINGUEZ
ALVAREZ Pueblo Vista Elementary
LILLIAN BANTLY
ERIC PINEDA
ZULEYMA FELIX BANUELOS
ELIAS RAMIREZ SEGURA
SEBASTIAN SALAZAR
LJ BERNARDO PAULINO
ANDRES QUINONEZ HARO
LAURELY VARGAS
JAYDEN CREANO
AUDREY KLIEMAN
ULISES CORONA
ARIADNA RIVERA MOISEN
ABYGAIL CARREON CANDELARIO
SYDNEY GOODMANSON LIA MENDOZA
ALEJANDRO PELAYO
JAMES HARDISTER
LOGAN BRANDT
ZELAYAH CALLEJAS
ARIA BARTHOLOMEW ANDERSON SCHRADER
MATEO HURTADO PEDRO IRUCUTA CAMPOS
ANAHI VARGAS JOCELYN GUTIERREZ
JUDSON VANO ALETTE CIESLAK
TEAGAN MCGINNESS SAMUEL BREEDLOVE
ISAAC VASQUEZ KEVIN AGUILAR HERNANDEZ
JOY MORALES MARQUEZ MIA VELASQUEZ LEON
SOPHIE ALCANTAR
Redwood Middle School
ISABELLA ALMAGUER
Browns Valley Elementary
SYDNEY GOODMANSON
MARIE
Napa Clubhouse
ARIANA
SARA MENDOZA JIMENEZ Willow Elementary SAMUEL BREEDLOVE
ISCO VARGAS
ELENA CERILLO FERNÁNDEZ
MIRAE CAPRIOLA VALERIA SOLORIO
ALAN MARTINEZ
CARMEN MAREK
ELENA CERRILLO AARON HERNANDEZ
SARA MENDOZA JIMENEZ
MELINA PADILLA AYALA
ELEONORA PEREZ
ISLA DELL
AMERICAN CANYON MS
NAPA CLUBHOUSE PUEBLO VISTA WILLOW
THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY SUPPORT
ARE YOU READY?
FORMER YOUTHS OF THE YEAR
A LEGACY OF SUCCESS
MELODY KONDOR 2025 YOUTH OF THE YEAR
Melody has been a member of the Boys & Girls Club of Napa Valley since 2015 where she attended Donaldson Way Elementary. She is currently a Senior at American Canyon High School and plans to apply to Stanford University.
LAIZAH CORONADO 2024 YOUTH OF THE YEAR
Following in the footsteps of her older brother, Laizah took the stage in 2024 to share her story.
Her honesty and courage earned her our highest honor that night. Since then, she has represented the Club in many capacities as a voice for local youth. We are thrilled that, in her senior year of high school, she has chosen to return to the stage.
DAREYDY ROJAS 2023 YOUTH OF THE YEAR
Dareydy radiates a vibrant energy that’s impossible to ignore. It’s no surprise our judges were captivated by her virtual performance as the 2021 Youth of the Year. In this role, she proudly represented the Club through radio interviews and speaking engagements across the Valley.
ASHLEY GONZALEZ 2022 YOUTH OF THE YEAR
Driven by a tenacious work ethic, Ashley graduated early with honors from Valley Oak High School and is now pursuing a future with the United States Marine Corps. While preparing for boot camp, she continues to work full-time as a barista at Peet’s Coffee in Napa.
AILEEN CORTES
ISABELLA LOO
CLUB 1515
SADOC ROJAS SOLANO
CLUB 1515
MARIANA CORONADO
CLUB 1515
YOUTH OF THE YEAR 2026
ONE NIGHT. MANY STORIES. ENDLESS POTENTIAL
AILEEN CORTES, 15 Member since 2017
Only One You
Aileen has been a member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Napa Valley since 2017, joining our programs as a member of the Napa Clubhouse. She is currently a Freshman at Napa High school and upon graduation plans to pursue a degree in Fashion Design in hopes of Lunching her own Fashion Line and Products.
CLUB ENGAGEMENT
Keystone Leadership
Great Futures Road Trip
Cooking Club
Dance Club
National Fine Arts
Ready, Set, Work Program
LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing with great enthusiasm to recommend Aileen for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley Youth of the Year program. I have had the privilege of teaching Aileen for the past two years, and during that time, she has consistently demonstrated strong character, leadership, and a genuine commitment to serving others.
Aileen is a thoughtful, responsible, and motivated student who values kindness, teamwork, and personal growth. She takes pride in doing her best academically and approaches challenges with a positive attitude and perseverance. Beyond the classroom, Aileen is someone who naturally steps up to help others and looks for ways to make a positive impact in her community. As a WEB Leader, Aileen served as a role model for younger students, showing patience, empathy, and leadership. She worked well as both a leader and a team member, always willing to listen, collaborate, and support those around her.
Her ability to connect with others and make them feel welcomed is one of her greatest strengths. Aileen’s involvement with the Boys & Girls Club has played an important role in her development. Through her continued participation and service, she has developed confidence, leadership skills, and increased responsibility. She genuinely enjoys giving back and takes pride in contributing to a community that has supported her growth.
It is clear that the Boys & Girls Club has helped shape her into a capable, compassionate, and motivated young leader. Aileen’s accomplishments are the result of her strong work ethic, dedication, and desire to help others. She sets goals for herself and follows through with determination. I have no doubt that she has the potential to continue growing as a leader and to positively represent the values of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
I strongly recommend Aileen for the Youth of the Year program. She would be an excellent ambassador and is truly deserving of this recognition. Please feel free to contact me if you need any additional information.
Sincerely,
Marie Zorn, NVUSD
YOUTH OF THE YEAR 2026
ONE NIGHT. MANY STORIES. ENDLESS POTENTIAL
ISABELLA LOO, 15 Member since 2017
Begins With Belonging
Isabella Loo has been a member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Napa Valley since 2017 where she joined our programs at the American Canyon Clubhouse site. She is currently a Sophomore at American Canyon High school and upon graduation plans to join the Military as a part of the Air Force and pursue a career in nursing.
CLUB ENGAGEMENT
Jr. Staff Program
SMART Girls Program
National Fine Arts
ACC Winter Showcase
LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
To the Award Selection Committee,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend Isabella Loo for the Youth of the Year through the Boys & Girls Club. It has been a pleasure to know and work with Ms. Isabella Loo over the course of the year, and I can say with confidence that she embodies the values and mission of the Boys & Girls Club
Ms. Isabella Loo consistently demonstrates strong character, leadership, and genuine commitment to personal growth and service to others. She serves as the Girls Soccer Manager this year at American Canyon High School, and she also participates in Color Guard. One of her responsibilities as the ACHS girls' soccer team manager is to be present at every game and keep score, which requires a major time commitment In addition, she also participates in Kajukenbo, and was named as the Kajunkenbo protege at the local JCMA in 2022-2024. I am most impressed with Miss Lo’s academic performance, and she has currently maintained a 3.8 GPA while serving the school community and participating in extracurricular activities.
She approaches every opportunity with a positive attitude and a willingness to help, whether supporting peers, participating in programs, or contributing to group activities Her respect for staff and fellow members sets a strong example for others. As sophomore, she is very involved in the school community and extracurricular activities, which makes her an outstanding candidate for Youth of the Year. One of Isabella’s greatest strengths is her dedication to self-improvement. She takes initiatives, accepts feedback with maturity, and works hard to overcome challenges. Through their involvement in the Boys & Girls Club, she has shown perseverance, responsibility, and a desire to make positive choices for their future.
In addition, Isabella Loo is a role model to her peers. She leads by example through her actions, kindness, and dependability. Her ability to uplift others while staying focused on their goals makes her especially deserving of this recognition.
I strongly believe that Ms Isabella Loo represents the very best of what the Boys & Girls Club stands for. I offer my highest recommendation for their selection for this award.
Sincerely,
Ms Cheryl Garcia, English Teacher, ACHS, NVUSD
YOUTH OF THE YEAR 2026
ONE NIGHT. MANY STORIES. ENDLESS POTENTIAL
SADOC ROJAS SOLANO, 17 Member since 2014
Hide & Seek
Sadoc has been a member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Napa Valley since 2014 where he joined our programs at the Napa Clubhouse. He is currently a Junior at Vintage High school and upon graduation plans to pursue a degree in Engineering. He plans to attend Napa Valley College and transfer to UC Davis.
CLUB ENGAGEMENT
di Rosa Project Artist
Keystone President
Teen Mentoring
Passport to Manhood
Great Futures Road Trip
Cooking Club
March Madness
National keystone Conference
Read, Set, Work Program
Level Up Teen Panelist
Teen Night Out
EXTRA CURRICULAR
Vintage High Wrestling
Vintage High Football
Vintage High Track & Field
COOL School Staff Member
LAPS Dog Training Volunteer
Napa ALS Walk Volunteer
Crush Challenge Volunteer
LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend Sadoc Rojas for “Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley Youth of the Year.” I have had the privilege of knowing him for almost two years as his 10th-grade English teacher, and I can confidently say that Sadoc exemplifies the qualities of a conscientious, dedicated, and well-rounded individual who is worthy of this recognition. Sadoc has demonstrated exceptional leadership as President of the Keystone Club at the Boys and Girls Club, where he has organized and coordinated numerous community service initiatives. From volunteering for the annual Crab Feed and ALS Walk to designing centerpieces for Lo Onda,
Sadoc consistently takes initiative to bring people together for meaningful causes Beyond these formal roles, he has volunteered with the Boys & Girls Club for twelve years, not only participating in after-school programs but also planning and organizing volunteer activities. Additionally, Sadoc served as a mentor at Northwood's "Cool School" program, where he assisted students with homework and organized engaging activities, demonstrating a genuine commitment to supporting younger students' academic and personal growth. Sadoc’s involvement in athletics, including football, track and field with a specialty in pole vault, and wrestling, has shaped his character profoundly. Through these sports, he has developed strong teamwork and camaraderie skills while consistently pushing himself to achieve personal excellence. His athletic pursuits reflect a determination to challenge himself and grow as an individual.
What truly sets Sadoc apart is his character Despite facing learning difficulties, he has worked twice as hard as his peers to produce thoughtful and polished written work, demonstrating resilience and academic integrity In the classroom, Sadoc has shown remarkable strength and maturity, participating constructively in discussions and group work. He approaches his peers and teachers with respect and maintains collaborative relationships built on mutual trust. It is clear to me that Sadoc has cultivated a confidence and quiet determination that surely is in part due to his wholehearted involvement with the Boys and Girls Club.
Whatever he decides to do in the future, I know he will do it with grace and a steady yet fierce dedication to improving his community. I am glad to know there is a place in our community like the Boys & Girls Club that has given him a place to grow into such a kind and generous young man. There is no question that he will certainly be a deserving recipient of this honor.
Sincerely,
Jennifer LaMonte, English Teacher, NVUSD
YOUTH OF THE YEAR 2026
ONE NIGHT. MANY STORIES. ENDLESS POTENTIAL
MARIANA CORONADO, 16 Member since 2014
SEE MY VIDEO
Defined by Resilience
Mariana has been a member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Napa Valley since 2014, joining our programs as a member of the Napa Clubhouse. She is currently a Junior at Napa High school and upon graduation plans to obtain a degree in social work to pursue a career as Child and Family Social Worker.
CLUB ENGAGEMENT
Keystone Vice President
Great Futures Road Trip
Cooking Club
National Fine Arts
Ready, Set, Work Program
SMART Girls Program
Teen Night Out
Teen Volunteer Program
EXTRA CURRICULAR
Napa High Basketball
Napa ALS Walk Volunteer
Viticulture Internship
Napa Soroptimist Award Winner
Napa High Yearbook
Ford Driving Dream Winner
LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
To Whom It May Concern,
I am proud to recommend Mariana Coronado. As a student, Mariana is determined, helpful, and a friend to all. She is positive and always wants to learn. Mariana considers the Boys and Girls Club her second home. As a teacher, I encourage students to volunteer at the beginning of the year since the large majority have no community service. However, as an eleventhgrader, Mariana already has been volunteering for years and has been leading her peers to The Club for both service and help.
With a 3.5 GPA, Mariana is doing well in school and hopes to attend college. Mariana wants to become a social worker so she can help others as she was so crucially cared for as a child. This strong, young woman has empathy for all, the unhoused’s many needs, kiddos who are still learning how to cope as they grow up, and her peers’ mental health to name a few. Despite the reality of having to parent her younger siblings at a very young age and other struggles I wouldn’t wish on an adult; Mariana didn’t let things others’ actions make her bitter.
Mariana and her peers volunteered at the ALS Walk and created the Somos Fuertes Unidos mural. When graffiti tags marred their art, she and her positive crew spraypainted pretty clouds over the graffiti. Analogous to Mariana’s life, others have made poor decisions that did impact her life, but she doesn’t let those people break her down, instead she makes life more beautiful for all to see.
Earlier in the year, I was at our local park with my kids and saw Mariana. We both waved and smiled. She was talking to a girl, and I thought she might be keeping her distance. However, later she told me that she was listening to her problems, being a friend and therapist. She was creating a safe space for her in the middle of the wide open. Mariana has a self-assurance and caring spirit.
In class, Mariana advocates for other students. With respect and without fear, she speaks up for what is right. Almost every day, Mariana and her friends at school eat lunch together in my classroom. They support each other, invite friends, and give advice along with lots of laughter.
Laura Proffitt, English Teacher, NVUSD
YOUTH OF THE YEAR 2026
ONE NIGHT. MANY STORIES. ENDLESS POTENTIAL
ANDREA CORTES, 15 Member since 2017
Success on Our Own Terms
Andrea has been a member of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley since 2017, joining our programs as a member of the Napa Clubhouse. She is currently a sophomore at Napa High School and upon graduating, Andrea plans to pursue a career in healthcare as an Ultrasound Technician through Kaiser Permanente School of Allied Health Services.
CLUB ENGAGEMENT
Keystone Leadership
Teen Mentoring
di Rosa Project Artist
Great Futures Road Trip
SMART Girls Program
Dance Club
Cooking Club Read, Set, Work Program
National Fine Arts
LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
To Whom It May Concern,
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to recommend Andrea for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley Youth of the Year program. I had the pleasure of teaching Andrea during her 7th-grade year in English, where she consistently demonstrated responsibility, kindness, and a strong commitment to her learning and community.
Andrea is a dependable and hardworking student who values respect, effort, and growth. In the classroom, she came prepared, participated thoughtfully, and showed pride in her work. Andrea’s enthusiasm for the Boys & Girls Club is especially notable. She speaks with genuine pride about her involvement and clearly values the sense of belonging, support, and opportunity the Club provides.
Through her participation, Andrea has developed important leadership and teamwork skills, learning how to collaborate with others, take responsibility, and contribute positively to her community. As both a leader and a team member, Andrea is thoughtful, respectful, and encouraging. She works well with peers, listens to others’ ideas, and is willing to step up when help is needed. These qualities reflect her strong character and her interest in making a difference beyond herself. The Boys & Girls Club has played an important role in her personal growth, helping her build confidence and envision goals for her future. I believe she has strong potential for continued leadership success and would represent the values of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America with integrity and pride.
I strongly recommend Andrea for the Youth of the Year program. She is a deserving candidate and an excellent example of the character, leadership, and service this honor represents. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
Marie Zorn, NVUSD
YOUTH OF THE YEAR 2026
ONE NIGHT. MANY STORIES. ENDLESS POTENTIAL
NAYELI SALAZAR REAL, 14 Member since 2020
Nayeli has been a member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Napa Valley since 2020 where she joined our programs at the American Canyon Clubhouse site. She is currently a Freshman at American Canyon High school and upon graduation plans to pursue a Medical degree as a Surgeon after graduating from a California State University.
CLUB ENGAGEMENT
LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
To the Community Youth of the Year Selection Committee,
It is with great pride and enthusiasm that I recommend Nayeli Salazar Real for the Community Youth of the Year Award. I strongly recommend Nayeli to receive the Community Youth of the Year Award for her extraordinary commitment to excellence, positive contributions, outstanding academic achievement, and exemplary leadership within her school and community.
Nayeli exemplifies the very best of youth leadership. She is a creative thinker who consistently develops new and innovative ideas, approaching challenges with curiosity, initiative, and purpose. As a continuous learner, Nayeli actively seeks opportunities to grow academically, socially, and personally, demonstrating a genuine commitment to understanding herself, others, and the world around her.
Equally remarkable is Nayeli’s role as a motivator of others. She encourages her peers to believe in themselves and to persevere when faced with challenges. Her patience, empathy, and positive spirit make her a natural leader and a trusted role model. Nayeli has made a meaningful impact as a patient and dedicated Academic Tutor and Teacher’s Assistant. She tutored students in math class, supporting her peers by showing them various ways to think creatively and apply effective problem-solving strategies.
Additional achievements include a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition for Kids Commerce. Now a student at American Canyon High School, Nayeli continues to excel academically, maintaining an impressive 4.1 GPA, while remaining actively engaged in leadership and service. Nayeli Salazar Real embodies integrity, perseverance, and service. She is an exceptional young leader whose actions consistently uplift those around her. I offer my strongest recommendation without reservation and am confident she will continue to make a meaningful impact in her community and beyond.
Respectfully,
Andrea Harris, Teacher, American Canyon Middle School
YOUTH OF THE YEAR 2026
ONE NIGHT. MANY STORIES. ENDLESS POTENTIAL
SAUL SOLANO, 17 Member since 2014
SEE MY VIDEO
Invest In You
Saul has been a member of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley since 2014, beginning his journey at our Napa Clubhouse. Now a junior at Vintage High School, he continues to grow as a leader and role model. Saul plans to pursue a degree in finance, inspired by his drive to create a strong and successful future.
CLUB ENGAGEMENT
Keystone Leadership
Teen Mentoring
National Fine Arts
Ready, Set, Work Program
Cooking Club
Passport to Manhood
Science Fair
Soccer Club
Great Futures Road Trip
Teen Night Out
Level Up Teen Panelist
EXTRA CURRICULAR
Napa Sport Soccer
Vintage High School
Culinary Program
LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
To Whom It May Concern,
I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for Saul Solano in support of his application for Youth of the Year with the Boys & Girls Club. I have had the privilege of teaching Saul for three years in American Sign Language, and during that time, he has consistently demonstrated kindness, thoughtfulness, and respect toward both his peers and adults
Saul is a student who genuinely challenges himself. While he could have easily fulfilled his foreign language requirement by taking Spanish, he chose instead to step outside his comfort zone and commit to learning American Sign Language. This decision speaks volumes about his willingness to grow, his curiosity, and his respect for diverse communities. Saul approaches learning with patience and sincerity, and he brings a calm, positive presence into the classroom.
Beyond academics, Saul has taken on several meaningful leadership roles through the Boys & Girls Club. As a Ready Set Work Leader, he actively listened to professionals from a variety of fields, learning how different businesses operate From this experience, he gained valuable insight into career pathways and began identifying areas of genuine interest, showing maturity and thoughtful self-reflection. As a Cook Club Program Leader, Saul taught others how to cook and prepare food, helping them build independence and confidence, an impressive responsibility that required patience, organization, and encouragement. Additionally, as a Keystone Treasure, Saul managed a budget, confidently shared his opinions, and worked collaboratively to problem-solve, further demonstrating his leadership and accountability.
Saul’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. He was recognized as Member of the Month for Academic Excellence in 2025 by the Boys & Girls Club, a well-deserved honor that reflects both his work ethic and commitment to personal growth. He currently maintains a 3.5 GPA and is on track to graduate in 2027, balancing his academic responsibilities with leadership and service. Saul is a truly sweet young man with a strong sense of responsibility and empathy for others. He leads quietly but effectively, and he consistently seeks ways to learn, contribute, and support those around him. I am confident he embodies the values of the Boys & Girls Club and would be an excellent representative as Youth of the Year. I strongly and wholeheartedly recommend Saul Solano for this honor.
Sincerely,
Emily Bristo, NVUSD
YOUTH OF THE YEAR 2026
ONE NIGHT. MANY STORIES. ENDLESS POTENTIAL
AUDREY ALIGA, 16 Member since 2018
SEE MY VIDEO
Be Bold
Audrey has been a member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Napa Valley since 2018 where she joined our programs at the American Canyon Clubhouse site. She is currently a Junior at American Canyon High school and upon graduation plans to pursue a degree in Architecture & Engineering and aspires to create and own a Book Café.
CLUB ENGAGEMENT
Jr. Staff Program
SMART Girls Program
National Fine Arts
Youth of the Year
Teen Mentoring Program
EXTRA CURRICULAR
ACHS Varsity Tennis Captain
ACHS Track & Field
ACHS Link Crew
ACHS Key Club
Speech & Debate Club
California Scholarship Foundation
Academic Decathlon
LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
To Whom It May Concern,
I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation in support of Audrey Aliga for the Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year Scholarship. As a teacher who has worked closely with her, I have consistently been impressed by her creativity, leadership, and genuine commitment to serving others. Audrey is a thoughtful and creative individual with strong interests in architecture, writing, and creative expression. She brings imagination and purpose into everything she does, whether she is working independently or collaborating with others Her creativity is matched by a strong sense of responsibility and follow-through, making her someone others naturally trust and rely on
One of her most impactful contributions has been her work supporting incoming freshmen. She has experience tutoring freshmen and leading presentations designed to help them prepare for their high school careers, offering guidance, encouragement, and reassurance during a major transition. Through the Link Crew program at American Canyon High School, she also assisted in facilitating and planning an original and engaging freshman event, helping create a welcoming and inclusive environment for new students.
Audrey is also committed to improving her school community. She has participated in campus beautification efforts with friends, taking initiative to keep the school clean and inviting. These efforts reflect her pride in her school and her willingness to contribute without recognition.
While her extracurricular involvement is largely centered around athletics, her leadership extends well beyond competition. She assisted with tennis drills during a four-week summer conditioning program and led mini-games for both Varsity and JV teams, supporting skill development and team cohesion. In addition, she organized team bonding activities, including events such as a team movie night and a girls’ pool party, fostering a positive and connected team culture.
She also played a key role in facilitating Girls Tennis Senior Night, helping create a meaningful and memorable experience for graduating seniors and their supporters. Her organization, attention to detail, and care for others were evident throughout the planning and execution of this event. Audrey is a student who leads with creativity, initiative, and heart. She consistently seeks ways to uplift others and strengthen her community, making her an excellent candidate for the Youth of the Year Scholarship. I recommend her without hesitation.
Sincerely,
Jack Lagomarsino, Spanish Teacher, American Canyon H.S.
