DENVER (CBS4) – Deserving teenagers from across the state are vying for the honor of Colorado Youth of the Year.

The teens are all members of the Boys and Girls Club of America. Each has not only conquered personal challenges, but also given back to the club and their communities.

On Monday the 13 candidates gave speeches to a panel of judges in Denver. One of the candidates said the awards are important, not only for the winners, but the club as a whole.

“It helps us get more things that we need for the club,” Michaela Medrano from Salida said. “We get known more, we can talk to people in higher places that can get us more.”

This year’s winner will be announced Tuesday morning at a special breakfast.