The Annual Teen Character Awards celebrate the hard work and commitment of teens in our communities who make a lasting impact on others.

The YMCA Teen Character awards started in 2003 honoring twenty-teens. Since then over four hundred and fifty teens have been honored with this award. The opportunity to share their stories and impact is unlike any other. 

These award winners are living examples of strong moral character, leadership, and service dedicated to strengthening families, schools, and communities. Each one of these teens is a testament to the character traits of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. In a time when our communities are faced with immense challenges, it is vital that we reach out to each other and share these amazing stories.

We demonstrate character in action and applaud all of our winners for their accomplishments. We encourage them to continue to lead their lives with the positive character values they’ve displayed. Through their actions, we are reminded that even when no one is watching each of us can make a difference. That one person’s actions are contagious and can inspire a family, a school, a community.

YMCA CORE VALUES:

CARING is evidenced by helping and loving others.

HONESTY is evidenced by truthfulness and integrity.

RESPECT is evidenced by valuing the worth of others and self.

RESPONSIBILITY is evidenced by accountability to others and self.

If you are interested in getting involved with the YMCA Teen Character Awards please email jlachapelle@ymcanw.org