Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta celebrates ‘Gail Johnson Day’ on September 1, honoring an individual who embodies the finest attributes of youth service and community leadership.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta (BGCMA) proudly commemorates September 1 as “Gail Johnson Day” in honor of BGCMA Executive Director Gail Johnson’s unparalleled dedication and transformative impact throughout her remarkable 45-year tenure in youth development.
“We’re not working with numbers; we’re working with hearts and souls in our children. And if we touch their hearts, we pierce their souls,” said Johnson. “I get to come to work every day and do what I love to do, and that is to touch kids’ hearts and their souls. And that is so important to me because if I’ve touched your heart and your soul, then I’ve touched the future.”
With an unwavering dedication spanning four and a half decades, Johnson is a guiding light and an agent of change who has empowered generations of youth and profoundly touched countless lives and communities. Having been a member of The Girls Club during her teenage years, Johnson personally understood the profound impact the organization can have on young lives and began her BGCMA career at the Decatur DeKalb Girl’s Club on Sept. 1, 1978, while a sociology student at Spelman College. Since 1991, she has worked at Warren Club in Grant Park, a cornerstone of inspiration for local youth.
On August 30, BGCMA orchestrated a surprise celebration to honor her 45 years of dedicated service. The event united Boys & Girls Club leadership, former Club members, staff, and esteemed local leaders, including Interim APS Superintendent Dr. Danielle Battle and Council member Jason Winston (District 1), who declared September 1 as “Gail Johnson Day” in the City of Atlanta—in recognition of her exceptional contributions and unwavering devotion to enriching the lives of Atlanta’s youth and communities.
“Through her tireless efforts, Ms. Gail has cultivated an enduring legacy, inspiring hope, and igniting unlimited potential in the hearts of the young minds she’s touched,” said BGCMA President & CEO David Jernigan. “Her remarkable story is a testament to the profound impact one person can have on shaping great futures through a lifetime of service.”
Throughout her remarkable tenure, Johnson has exemplified extraordinary leadership and visionary thinking. Her steadfast commitment to nurturing young minds and fostering vital life skills has been especially evident during challenging times. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Johnson’s resilience shone as she penned 267 heartfelt letters to Club members, providing a source of connection, support, and encouragement during moments of isolation. At the surprise celebration, Johnson was presented with handwritten letters from kids, staff, and community members whose lives she has deeply impacted. These letters encapsulate the breadth of her positive influence and the enduring legacy she has forged through her unparalleled dedication.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Christin Jackson
Brand & Marketing Manager
Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta
470.823.3276 | CJackson@bgcma.org<
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta:
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta (BGCMA): For 85 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta (BGCMA) has ignited the unlimited potential of kids and teens by creating safe, inclusive, and engaging environments. Our 25 Clubs located in 10 counties across metropolitan Atlanta serve more than 7000 kids & teens (ages 6-18) each year, offering youth development programs during critical non-school hours that promote academic success, healthy lifestyles, and character & leadership. BGCMA also oversees Camp Kiwanis, a 160-acre outdoor residence camp. To learn more about BGCMA, visit us online at www.bgcma.org.