This year, USA Today is shining a spotlight on the 2025 Baby of the Year competition, and it’s about more than just celebrating little bundles of joy—it’s about making a real difference for families across the country.
There’s something magical about the way a baby’s smile can brighten the day. And when that sweetness is tied to a movement of kindness and giving, it becomes even more beautiful.
✨ Read the full USA Today story here. Jessica Alba Kicks Off 2025 Baby of the Year Competition
A Look Back: Baby Sloane’s Big Impact
Last year’s winner, 7-month-old Sloane Maya from Los Angeles, showed us just how powerful a tiny superstar can be. She won a $25,000 prize, and an appearance in a Good Housekeeping ad! And, funds generated through the Baby of the Year campaign generated $24.3 million to support Baby2Baby, the nonprofit that provides basic essentials—like diapers, clothing, and formula—to over one million children living in poverty each year.
Now 18 months old, Sloane and her parents recently appeared on Good Morning America with Baby2Baby’s Co-CEOs, reflecting on how the competition turned love for their little one into life-changing support for families they’d never even met.
What’s New in 2025?
This year’s competition is off to a glowing start as it’s presented by actress, entrepreneur, and Baby2Baby board member Jessica Alba. She’s joined by Paris Hilton and Kelly Rowland, all lending their voices to amplify this heartwarming cause.
The competition is now open and voting is underway as babies move through a friendly, tournament-style competition powered by community votes. Each supporter can cast one free vote per day, while additional votes by donation support Baby2Baby.
It’s a perfect mix of adorable photos, a little cheerleading, and a lot of generosity.
Baby of the Year 2025 Is Not a Contest, It’s a Competition
For Sloane’s family, the biggest prize wasn’t the check or the recognition—it was the kindness they witnessed. “We got messages from strangers saying they voted every day,” her parents recalled. “It felt like our community just kept growing—and all for such an important reason.”
That spirit of connection, kindness, and collective giving is what makes Baby of the Year so special.
Head over to babyoftheyear.org to learn more. Even if you’re not a parent, you can be part of the movement by casting your daily vote and helping Baby2Baby continue their incredible mission.
Because when cuteness meets compassion, extraordinary things happen. 💛
