Scottsdale Teen A Finalist For 'Kid Of The Year' Award

SCOTTSDALE, AZ — A Scottsdale teen is a finalist for the first-ever Kid of the Year award from Nickelodeon and Time Magazine.

Dylan Capshaw, 14, announced that he is one of 20 finalists for the award, thanks to his local philanthropic work. Capshaw started the Dylan Capshaw Wildlife Foundation and sanctuary in 2017 following Hurricane Harvey to help rescue animals in crisis.

More recently, Capshaw started For The Frontline and The Sanitation Stations, non-profits dedicated to helping those in need during the coronavirus pandemic. For The Frontline creates 3D-printed masks and face shields to help healthcare workers, and The Sanitation Stations places vending machines full of disinfecting wipes, gloves and masks at businesses around the Valley.

"Whether it's an animal or a person, I want to help whoever I can," Capshaw said in the announcement. "I just hope people stop thinking that you have to be an adult to do something."

Through his wildlife foundation, the teenager has rescued exotic animals like kangaroos and a wallaby. He has also raised funds to stop the dog meat trade in some Asian countries.

Kid of the Year 2020, in its first year, recognizes young leaders who make positive impacts on their local communities. The top five kids will be featured on an hour-long special hosted by Trevor Noah, and the ultimate winner to be pictured on the cover of Time Magazine.

The winner will be announced during an event, set to air on Nickelodeon, CBS, TeenNick and Nicktoons on Dec. 5.