As we celebrate our accomplishments in 2019, we can’t help but remember what a huge role you played in our success. Thank you! Your support helped thousands of kids and teens across the city reach their full potential.
1. We are reaching thousands of kids each day! Last year, nearly 2,800 kids and teens had a safe place to go after school – a place where they were greeted by caring staff, learned about themselves and the world, and prepared for a successful career after graduation.
2. Our kids are learning healthy choices are fun! Nearly two-thirds of members reported being physically active 5 or more days per week.
3. Our youth know the importance of giving back! 92% of high school members volunteer annually, making our community a better place for all!
4. We made history with the opening of the first-ever arts and innovation-centered hub! This award-winning site – John H. Harland Boys & Girls Club: The Innovation & Expression Studio (T.I.E.S.) – gives our youth an opportunity to learn critical skills, find and nurture their talent, and showcase or perform their work.
5. Club teens are gearing up for the real world! Nearly 800 teens explored career paths and learned soft skills they can use in the workplace. See how one ambitious teen turned her passion into a business!
6. Our kids dream big! 88% of elementary school members believe they will go to college.
7. Our teens are on their way to bright futures! 98% of our seniors participating in the CareerBound program graduated high school with a plan for the future, such as 4-year college, 2-year technical school, or joining a military branch.
8. Our kids saw academic gains over the summer months! While many kids and teens from low-income families see sizable dips in reading skill over summer break, our camps helped members stay up to speed. In fact, reading proficiency jumped by 9% for our 2nd – 8th.
9. Our youth are thriving through the arts! Three of our very own Club locations were awarded funding from the prestigious Wallace Foundation as part of the Youth Arts Initiative. This high-quality arts education programming promotes critical skills like problem solving, teamwork, and persistence.
10. Our teens are leading with confidence! Kimberly Heard, a teen who once suffered from self-doubt and anxiety, found her voice through the Boys & Girls Club. As our 2019/2020 Youth of the Year, she is the leading ambassador for the organization, empowering thousands of teens to make their dreams a reality.
