The Above & Beyond Youth Award is an award that recognizes teenagers in middle and high school who have made a significant contribution to our local community and who have shown initiative, enthusiasm, commitment, and a positive attitude. The awards program provides business, community, and civic leaders an opportunity to actively demonstrate their belief in and support for the young people in our community. These awards will celebrate the achievements and dedication of youth, youth groups, supporters of youth, and youth-friendly businesses within the city of Jacksonville, Florida.  

This one-of-a-kind award encompasses all youth: youth who have not finished school, youth in traditional classroom settings, youth in group homes, youth in alternative schools, youth in foster homes, and emancipated youth. 

The mission of the Above and Beyond Youth Awards: To identify and recognize 24 teenagers who have positively influenced themselves and those around them and often have not had any official recognition. These youths have overcome obstacles and risen to the challenges life has presented them, and are thus deserving of this recognition.