El Cajon’s young leaders are already making their mark — in classrooms, community centers, and volunteer projects across the city. Whether organizing campus events, stepping up service projects, or serving as role models for their peers, these students are shaping the future of their community in meaningful, hands-on ways.
Now, the city of El Cajon is once again putting a spotlight on those efforts with the return of its Youth of the Year Award, an annual recognition honoring outstanding middle school and high school students for leadership, service, and community involvement.
Presented in partnership with the El Cajon Teen Coalition, the award recognizes young people who are actively engaged in giving back to their community through volunteer work, civic participation, and positive leadership among their peers.
Each year, one middle school student and one high school student are selected. Eligible nominees must either be city of El Cajon residents or attend a school located within city boundaries. Award recipients are evaluated based on service completed during the previous calendar year — currently recognizing contributions made between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2025.
The goal is to recognize students who consistently demonstrate a commitment to service and who inspire others through their actions.
The nomination period is now open and will remain so through April 10. Nomination forms can be downloaded from the city of El Cajon website under the Parks & Recreation “Teen Coalition” tab. Completed forms should be emailed to Tim O’Melia at tomelia@elcajon.gov.
