Kari McCoy Earns National Young American Recognition

The JCI Santa Clarita president received national honors for her local community initiatives on September 12, 2026.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Youth

Bold vector editorial illustration featuring a geometric sculptural tree, symbolizing community growth and humanitarian leadership, in bright coral and teal. — JCI USA honored JCI Santa Clarita president Kari McCoy as one of its Ten Outstanding Young Americans for 2026. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

JCI USA named Kari McCoy one of its 2026 Ten Outstanding Young Americans during a ceremony held on September 12, 2026, in Virginia Beach. McCoy was recognized for her extensive humanitarian and leadership contributions within the Santa Clarita community.

Why it matters

The award highlights individuals who demonstrate significant impact through voluntary leadership and community service. This recognition honors McCoy for her work in education, veterans support, and local civic initiatives.

The award is open to individuals between the ages of 18 and 40. McCoy's programs have directly supported more than 750 students and 150 local veterans.

The players

Kari McCoy

She is the president of JCI Santa Clarita and a professional veterans counselor recognized for creating multiple community initiatives.

JCI USA

This is a leadership development organization that promotes civic involvement among young people and operates across an international network.

The details

McCoy serves as president of JCI Santa Clarita and works professionally as a veterans counselor. Her portfolio includes founding the LEAP Children's Museum, co-creating the Get Real: Adulting 101 program, and establishing the Santa Clarita Veterans Resource Fair.

The United States Jaycees program began in 1938.
The 2026 Ten Outstanding Young Americans ceremony occurred on September 12, 2026.

Culture Shift

The recognition of Kari McCoy follows the tradition of the Ten Outstanding Young Americans awards program, which has honored young leaders since 1938. This continues a long-standing national movement to highlight youth-led humanitarian work.

Residents may see continued expansion of McCoy's local programs, such as the Adulting 101 curriculum and veterans resource fairs. These initiatives provide ongoing educational and support services for students and veterans throughout the Santa Clarita Valley.

The takeaway

Civic organizations play a critical role in fostering local leadership through structured community outreach initiatives. Individuals interested in civic engagement can look for local JCI chapters to participate in similar service-oriented programs.