The William “Bill“ Ruffini Youth of the Year
The Youth of the Year award reflects our mission: “To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.” The Board of Directors, staff, and volunteers are dedicated to empowering our youth and ensuring they have a voice in their Club’s administration. It is our responsibility to serve children with passion, purpose, and patience.
The Youth of the Year award was first introduced in Plymouth 35 years after our Club was founded in 1911, originally as the “Boy of the Year” in 1946. After girls were welcomed into the Club, both a Boy and Girl of the Year were selected in most years. With the transition to the Boys & Girls Club of Plymouth, the award was renamed Youth of the Year to reflect inclusivity.

The Youth of the Year award is presented at the conclusion of a rigorous three-month application process. Candidates complete a nationally prescribed application packet detailing their accomplishments in service to their family, community, school, and the Club. Additionally, each candidate writes two original essays in support of their nomination.
A panel of judges reviews the application packets and interviews each finalist, using a structured set of challenging questions designed to assess their commitment to the mission of our national movement. The Boys & Girls Club uniquely fosters the concept of servant leadership, emphasizing that tomorrow’s leaders are those who embrace the value of giving to others without regard for personal cost or inconvenience.
Our young people have raised funds to support depleted disaster relief efforts, packed care packages for shipment to Haiti, visited veterans and the elderly, and counseled their peers on the harm of hurtful remarks and self-injurious behaviors.
Note: Within the Club and among our Directors, sponsors, and mentors, the term “Utes”—coined by Joe Pesci in My Cousin Vinny—is used affectionately and with great respect when referring to our young members.
The Youth of the Year award is generously provided by the Stephen Magner Memorial Fund, and we extend our sincere gratitude for their continued support.
Youth of the Year Winners

















Sponsors
Thank you to our Sponsor, The Plymouth Lions Club!
