Community Corner
McLean Teen Character Awards: Nominate A Student Leader
MCA is seeking nominations for the 2026 Outstanding Character Award. Honor a DC-area teen for selfless service by the April 24 deadline.

MCLEAN, VA — The McLean Citizens Association is seeking nominations for its annual Outstanding Character Award for Teenagers, an initiative designed to honor local youth who demonstrate exceptional ethics and compassion.
The awards recognize teenagers in the greater Washington, D.C., area who have performed selfless acts without compensation or formal recognition. Examples of eligible service include caring for elderly relatives, looking after younger siblings or volunteering within the neighborhood.
“Teens who have, on their own and without compensation or formal recognition, cared for others deserve to be recognized not only for themselves but as examples to others,” the MCA said in a statement.
Find out what's happening in McLeanfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The MCA Education and Youth Committee will review all submissions to ensure they meet the criteria and select the most deserving candidates.
Winners will be honored with a certificate during a presentation on the outdoor stage at McLean Day, scheduled for 2:45 p.m. Saturday, May 16, at Lewinsville Park, 1659 Chain Bridge Road. The names of the recipients will also be shared with local media to highlight their contributions to the community.
Find out what's happening in McLeanfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Nominations must be submitted via email to e-y_committee@mcleancitizens.org no later than Friday, April 24.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.