Boys & Girls Clubs of Albany received a Champions of Youth award from Boys & Girls Clubs of America for their advocacy on behalf of Georgia’s youth.

“As a local youth development organization serving young people every day, we have a responsibility to lead beyond our walls,” said Jacqueline D. Robinson, Chief Executive Officer of Boys & Girls Clubs of Albany. “Advocacy is not optional for organizations like ours, it is essential. We are committed to elevating the voices and needs of young people, especially those who need us most, and to demonstrating what is possible when communities, elected leaders, and youth-serving organizations work together to create real solutions.”

Throughout 2025, Boys & Girls Clubs of Albany intentionally strengthened its advocacy presence by engaging with local and state leaders, participating in community convenings, and elevating the needs of young people across southwest Georgia. Club leadership met with elected officials and policymakers to advance conversations around afterschool access, youth development, and community investment. As part of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Georgia’s State Youth of the Year program, Club representatives and our 2025, Youth of the Year, Javien Butts, engaged members of the Georgia General Assembly to highlight the critical role afterschool programs play in supporting academic success and workforce readiness. In addition, Club leaders participated in numerous civic and community events alongside government, education, and business leaders, reinforcing its commitment to collaboration, visibility, and sustained advocacy on behalf of our youth and families.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Club Advocacy Engagement Recognition Program recognizes the advocacy work that Boys & Girls Clubs do every day, with an emphasis on impact, creativity and innovation. The program consists of three tiers for Clubs: Advocate (first 50% of Clubs), Hero (next 40% of Clubs) and Champion (top 10% of Clubs). Clubs get points for impactful engagements, and those points determine in which tied a Club is placed. 

“Advocacy is not a moment, it is a mindset,” said Robinson. “Every conversation, every relationship, and every seat at the table is an opportunity to advance outcomes for young people. This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring that the priorities of youth remain front and center in decisions that shape our community, our state, and our nation.”