Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich is proud to announce Calijah Joseph as the Club’s 2025 Youth of the Year. The prestigious honor was awarded at the 57th Annual Youth of the Year Celebration on April 3, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Greenwich. This year’s event took place off-site while the Clubhouse is undergoing a major renovation and expansion, with a grand reopening planned for September.
Selected from an impressive group of eleven finalists, Calijah Joseph has demonstrated exceptional leadership, academic excellence, and a deep commitment to community service. Joseph, along with Yasmine Bruce, Daniela Hernandez, Haamed Hussaini, Leif Ryder King, Alexa Marical, Joell Molina, Michael Mamani, Sydney Niemynski, Salome Raigoza, and Taylor Tejada, showcased the qualities that define the Youth of the Year program.
“Being Youth of the Year isn’t just about having a title — it’s about carrying the responsibility to lead by example,” said Joseph. “It means inspiring others not with perfection, but with confidence, honesty, and the courage to share your story. It’s about showing up for others, using your voice to lift people up, and proving that no matter your challenges, you can rise, grow, and lead with purpose.”
The Youth of the Year program, established in 1969, recognizes Club members who embody service, academic success, strong character, and leadership. Winners go on to compete for the Connecticut Youth of the Year title, with the opportunity to advance to regional and national competitions. In 2024, Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich’s Youth of the Year, Omar Badr, was named the Connecticut State Youth of the Year.
Cristina Vittoria, CEO of Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich, underscored the significance of the award: “Youth of the Year is more than a title—it’s a testament to the resilience, character, and leadership of our Club members. These young people are the future, and their dedication to service and personal growth inspires us all. Calijah is a shining example of what it means to be a Youth of the Year.”
We’re also proud to announce that Hector Rodriguez was named the 2025 Junior Youth of the Year. Reflecting on his time at the Club, Hector shared, “The Boys & Girls Club will always be my second home. I’m proud to be a member and excited to continue my journey at the newly renovated Club next year in high school.”
In addition to naming the Youth of the Year, the Club also recognized Sydney Niemynski as the 2025 recipient of the David Ogilvy Award for Character, Kindness, and Integrity. This distinguished award, established in honor of former Board Chair David Ogilvy, is given to a high school Club member who embodies David Ogilvy’s reputation of trusted character, integrity, and his incomparable kindness.
The evening also paid tribute to George Fox, who was named the 2025 Champion of Youth. The Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich’s Champion of Youth award is the highest honor a supporter can achieve, recognizing those who demonstrate outstanding service and embody the Club’s mission. Fox, a dedicated champion of the Club for over two decades, has played an instrumental role in advancing its mission. As a former Board Chair from 2014 to 2019 and co-chair of the Building Great Futures capital campaign, his leadership has shaped the future of the Clubhouse’s renovation and expansion.
Beyond his leadership roles, Fox is a hands-on volunteer who actively engages with Club youth. He has served meals at the Thanksgiving Feast and Pancake Breakfast, cheered on participants at the Muddy Up 5K and 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament, and spent time interacting with kids at the after-school program. His unwavering commitment reflects his deep belief in the Club’s ability to transform lives.
“The Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich is a cornerstone for our community’s youth — offering support, mentorship, and opportunities to grow,” said Fox. “Watching young leaders like Calijah thrive with the Club’s guidance is truly inspiring. I’m proud to be part of an organization that empowers the next generation to succeed and make a difference.”
The event also recognized Barbara and Joe Havranek as the 2025 Community Impact Volunteers for their unwavering dedication to the Club and the youth it serves. In addition to giving their time, Barbara and Joe have generously invested in the Club’s mission, ensuring that its programs continue to provide life-changing experiences for members.
As the 2025 Youth of the Year, Calijah Joseph will now compete for the Connecticut Youth of the Year title, carrying forward the legacy of excellence and service that defines Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich.
