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Youth Awards

A.C.E. Awards

The A.C.E. (Accepting the Challenge of Excellence) Award recognizes high school students who have had to overcome great physical, emotional or social obstacles and are now eligible for high school graduation. This is a positive program with two key objectives: it helps encourage students to overcome their hardships and get back on track toward a high school diploma; and it recognizes those students who are often overlooked for their accomplishments. This special recognition serves as a powerful example to all students that hard work and perseverance are rewarded. A partial list of difficulties to overcome could include physical, language, child abuse, delinquency, and/or substance abuse.

Ensure candidate will graduate from high school this year, OR complete GED classes by the age of 19, by June 1 of this year.

Completed application (button below), along with the narratives described in the application should be emailed to:

Linda Carlson, Northern CA District President
[email protected]
707-479-3340

SUBMISSION DEADLINE IS APRIL 18, 2026

Note: A.C.E. Award winner receives a $1,000 cash award and will be honored at the District
Convention dinner banquet held on May 30, 2026 in Chico. Award recipient may bring 2 guests.
The Northern CA District A.C.E Award winner is automatically submitted for a chance to win a
National Exchange Club scholarship in the amount of $15,000 to be presented at the National
Convention in July. Travel and accommodations will be provided to the National winner and
his/her parents or guardians.

Legacy Scholarship

The National Exchange Club’s Legacy of the Year recognizes high school
students who are children, grandchildren or great-grandchildren of current
Exchange Club members. Candidates should also display exceptional
community involvement and leadership skills. This program rewards
outstanding young people and provides incentives for others to serve their
country and communities. 

Ensure candidate will graduate from high school this year, OR complete GED classes by the age of 19, by June 1 of this year.

Completed application (button below), along with the narratives described in the application should be emailed to:

Linda Carlson, Northern CA District President
[email protected]
707-479-3340

SUBMISSION DEADLINE IS APRIL 18, 2026

Note: Legacy Award winner receives a $250 cash award and will be honored at the District Convention banquet held on May 30, 2026. Award recipient may bring 2 guests. The Northern CA District Legacy Award winner is automatically submitted for a chance to win a National Exchange Club scholarship in the amount of $15,000 to be presented at the National Exchange Clubs convention in July. Travel and accommodations will be provided to the National winner and his/her parents or guardians.

Youth of the Year Award

Northern California District Exchange Clubs work with schools in their regions to identify Youth of the Year and Accepting the Challenge of Excellence (A.C.E.) award recipients.
 
Youth of the Year scholarships honor outstanding students who have exhibited excellence in academics and leadership. Recipients serve as role models to their peers by exhibiting exceptional scholastic achievement, respect for self and others, and ambitious career goals. Students receiving a local-level scholarship automatically qualify for Exchange District Exchange Clubs scholarships. Winners of the district-level competitions are then eligible to be recognized at the National level, which awards a $15,000 scholarship to each winning student. The National award is presented at National convention, with an all-expense paid trip for the student and their parents/guardians.

2025-2026 Youth of the Year Essay Theme:

“In a world that is constantly changing and ever-evolving, our youth
play critical roles in shaping the future of their communities. From
advocating to leading, young people are taking charge and making
significant impact. How have you personally contributed to society
and how do you envision your future in community service?”

Ensure candidate will graduate from high school this year, OR complete GED classes by the age of 19, by June 1 of this year.

Completed application (button below), along with the narratives described in the application should be emailed to:

Linda Carlson, Northern CA District President
[email protected]
707-479-3340

SUBMISSION DEADLINE IS APRIL 18, 2026

Note: YOY Award winner receives a $1,000 cash award and will be honored at the District Convention banquet held on May 30, 2026. Award recipient may bring 2 guests. The Northern CA District YOY Award winner is automatically submitted for a chance to win a National Exchange Club scholarship in the amount of $15,000 to be presented at the National Convention in July. Travel and accommodations will be provided to the National winner and his/her parents or guardians.

2026 Convention Registration

Additional Guest Meals:
(for accompanying guests of convention registrants. Meal only)