According to Boys And Girls Clubs Of Greater Dallas Anniversary Advisors and Advocates Gina and Ken Betts,
“Imagine a place where who you are, where you are from or the circumstances that surround you don’t determine your access to experiences or opportunities. Through your support, Boys And Girls Clubs are making that vision a reality — in your community and communities around the world.
“This organization captured our family’s attention and dedication more than two decades ago. Their mission to is enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.
“Boys And Girls Clubs provide a world-class ‘Club Experience’ that assures success is within reach of every young person who enters our doors, with all members on track to graduate from high school with a plan for the future, demonstrating good character and citizenship, and living a healthy lifestyle.
“We, like the leadership of Boys And Girls Clubs, believe every kid has what it takes. The mission and core beliefs of Boys And Girls Clubs fuel their commitment to promoting safe, positive and inclusive environments for all. Boys And Girls Clubs of America support all youth and teens – of every race, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, ability, socio-economic status, and religion – in reaching their full potential.
“Perhaps more telling is that 97% of Boys And Girls Club teens expect to graduate from high school and 88% expect to complete some kind of post-secondary education, according to national statistics.
“It is very informative to see how far they have come. Boys And Girls Clubs of America had its beginnings in 1860 with four women in Hartford, Connecticut – Mary Goodwin, Alice Goodwin, Elizabeth Hammersley and Louisa Bushnell. Believing that boys who roamed the streets should have a positive alternative, they organized the first Club.
“With character development as the cornerstone of the experience, the Club focused on capturing boys’ interests, improving their behavior and increasing their personal expectations and goals. A cause was born.
“Boys And Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas provides:
- “A safe place to learn and grow,
- “Ongoing relationships with caring, adult professionals,
- “Life-enhancing programs and character development experiences, and
- “Hope and opportunity.
“Their holistic approach, based on measurable outcomes, is delivered through three core programs:
- “Academic Success engages members in fun, hands-on activities where they practice reading, writing, speaking, math, and science. Our programs reinforce the skills and knowledge learned at school while remaining focused on the priority outcome for members to graduate from high school ready for the future.
- “Healthy Lifestyles equips youth to engage in positive and productive behavior. Participants learn to make responsible choices, set well-defined personal goals, and live healthier lives. Programming includes classes and activities centered on drug prevention and awareness, developing positive eating habits, physical fitness, and building positive self-esteem and image.
- “Good Character And Citizenship helps youth develop leadership capabilities, engage in community service activities and participate in civic leadership.
“At Boys And Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas, our programs have a proven track-record of success. Some highlights from last year include:
- “71% of Club Members had an A/B average.
- “93% of Club Members were promoted to the next grade.
- “100% of senior Club Members who attended at least twice per week while participating in 80% of Collegiate STEPS sessions graduated and moved on to higher education or the military.
“We believe it takes a village to help our community’s young people reach their full potential. That’s why, beyond financial support, we need your talent. Volunteers are needed in a variety of roles from mentoring, tutoring, participating on Advisory Boards at individual clubs, or supporting one of our events—whatever your availability, expertise, or passion we have an impactful role you can step into to change a child’s life.
“For more information about our mission, work, and how you can get involved please visit our website www.bgcdallas.org, follow us on Facebook, or reach out to Anthony Avalente at [email protected]. Thank you for taking the time to learn more—it is people like you who make their work possible.”
* Graphic/photo provided by Boys And Girls Clubs Of Greater Dallas
