PC3 Teams Up with the Boys & Girls Clubs of NWI for Youth of the Year 2026

Last Thursday was an inspiring evening at the annual Northwest Indiana Boys & Girls Clubs of America “Youth of the Year” gala at Avalon Manor Banquet Center in Merrillville.

PC3 students Andrew Copeland (Portage), Cailin Gipson (Portage), and Kaylee Mason (Valparaiso) attended alongside radio and tv instructor Mr. Harvoth and Porter County Career and Tech Center director Mrs. Peterson to cover the special event. The event was MC'ed by NWI Life's Chris Mahlmann, a proud PC3 advisory board member!

Andrea, a member of the John Will Anderson Gary Club, was named one of the 16 finalists representing Boys & Girls Club centers across Lake and Porter counties. She now advances to the state finals — just one step away from the national stage! Andrea earned a $5,000 scholarship, while runner-up Samara from the Lake Station club received $2,500. All other finalists were awarded $1,250 scholarships.

Stay tuned to the PC3 YouTube channel and during the Kouts sectional games this week for a recap of the celebration!

Thank you to Garrett from @greatnews.life for the great photos!