By Jada Jones, Spelman College guest contributor
Imagine a world where each child has the opportunity to reach their full potential and make a meaningful contribution to their neighborhood. Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta (BGCMA) aims to create a world where every child can reach their full potential through cutting-edge programs and commitment. Children and teenagers are provided the resources they need at BGCMA’s thriving and welcoming Harland Club to become leaders and pioneers of change. The Club offers diverse programs for creativity, teamwork, personal development, and more, empowering Atlanta’s youth with a supportive community.
Atlanta’s Westside has a community of future leaders growing at a location that’s more than a Club. Character and Leadership are prioritized in everything they do at Harland Club. The Club empowers kids to reach their potential, impact their world, and grow through fun and collaborative programs. Discover your potential and connect with like-minded individuals at the Harland Club, where a welcoming and safe environment awaits. The Harland Club transforms lives and shapes Atlanta’s future by empowering youth with BGCMA’s backing and relentless focus. 
The Club’s passionate staff and commitment to youth empowerment makes it more than just a hangout spot for teens. Vincent Blake, a Savannah College of Art and Design alumnus, leads the Club’s innovative and dynamic art program. Since joining the staff in December 2021, Blake’s dedication to helping youth develop their artistic abilities is remarkable.
The Harland Club’s teen director has transformed the space into a collaborative haven, where young artists experiment with new mediums. And the best part? According to Vincent, “the teens are in charge of the Club,” which fosters a sense of empowerment and ownership that is quite wonderful to see. “I remember when I started working here there were only eight teens. Then, that number dropped down to three teens. Now, we are at about thirty-four teens.”
Harland Club is about to get a whole lot bigger and better with plans to expand the artistic space and rebrand the entire club to create even more opportunities for young artists to unleash their creativity.
The joy and excitement of the Harland Club is palpable. “I love to draw pictures and play with my friends here,” said Nasir, a third-grade member.
Harland Club is not your average after-school program. It’s vibrant and dynamic community that offers a wide range of engaging activities that keep members on their toes and excited to come back day after day.
In the heart of Atlanta’s Westside, a revolution is brewing, and it’s being led by the talented and driven youth at the John H. Harland Club. Thanks to the unwavering support of the Boys & Girls Club of Metro Atlanta, the Harland Club is not just a safe haven for kids after school; its a place where young leaders are born and nurtured.