Local & Community
Victoria Perez Named Youth of the Year at Cathedral City Boys and Girls Club Awards
CATHEDRAL CITY, CA — The local community gathered Thursday night, May 7, 2026, for a heartwarming evening at the Boys & Girls Club of Cathedral City (BGCCC). The annual Youth & Community Awards honored both the young leaders shaping the future and the dedicated supporters who make the club's mission possible.
The event, which kicked off at 5:30 p.m., highlighted a year of significant milestones for the organization, including the successful acquisition of a new transportation van.
Honoring Community Pillars
Among those recognized for their exceptional commitment was Patsy Cocan, known for her popular "Dinner with Patsy" and "Pass the Hat" events. Last summer, Patsy partnered with NBC Palm Springs in a major fundraising effort to secure a new van for the club. The vehicle, which was on display at the event, has already begun serving the club's mission of providing safe passage for local youth.
Our very own News Director, David Reese, accepted an award on behalf of the station. Reese expressed gratitude for the opportunity to use our platform to "connect the valley" and support vital local resources like the BGCCC.
Victoria Perez: 2026 Youth of the Year
The pinnacle of the evening was the announcement of the 2026 Youth of the Year. The prestigious title was awarded to Victoria Perez, a 17-year-old Cathedral City resident who has become a standout role model within the club.
Perez delivered a moving speech about her journey with the club, describing it as a "home away from home" that provided her with the confidence and resources to pursue her academic and personal goals.
"The club is more than just a place to go after school," Perez told the audience. "It’s where I learned that I could be a leader and that my voice matters in this community."
A Legacy of Support
For more than 45 years, the Boys & Girls Club of Cathedral City has provided a nurturing environment for children across the Western Coachella Valley. CEO Scott Robinson noted that events like the Youth & Community Awards are essential not just for fundraising, but for reinforcing the bond between the club and the residents who sustain it.
As an independent chapter, the BGCCC is responsible for its own funding. The success of the "Pass the Hat" dinners and the visibility provided by local media partnerships ensure that over 600 young people continue to have access to academic support, health programs, and leadership training.
Congratulations to Victoria Perez and all the 2026 honorees for their dedication to building a brighter future for Cathedral City.
Explore NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the valley.
By: NBC Palm Springs
May 8, 2026
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