BE GREAT - A POSITIVE PLACE FOR KIDS SMBGC
Susan Elaine Wheeler
February 09, 2010
Art, athletics, education, leadership development, career preparation, social recreation, skateboarding, roller blading and technology have programs designed to help each member develop socially, succeed in school, stay physically active and prepare for their futures.
The theme of this year's keynote speeches were for each member to be upstanding, not a bystander. To achieve their best by getting involved and helping others to be their best. The awards included, Youth of the Month for Service and Outstanding Performance in the Art Shop, Athletics, Games Room, Leaders in Training, Learning Center, Skate Park, Technology Center and Teen Center. The top achiever in each group received the Youth of the Year award. Scholarships were presented in four age groups, Prep 7-9, Junior 10-12, Intermediate 13-15 and Senior 16-18.
The 2009 Youth of the Year award went to a incredible young lady, Mide Oladipupo. Her dedication and inspiration for everyone she comes in contact with encourages club members everyday to be great. She oversees fund raising and charity events that sponsor kids for new opportunities. Mide received a college scholarship that she will use at the college of her choice.
The Boys and Girls Clubs show by example with staff members and volunteers doing the right things for the right reasons. Each location supports their community through a direct outreach program with over 4300 locations across America. Open to all, these club members are nurtured and respected with values that share integrity in everything they do. The Boys and Girls Clubs of America are sponsored by donations from corporations and individuals, providing funds for their programs.
I've been personally involved as a volunteer since Jan 2009 and to see first hand the outstanding work this organization does in Santa Monica, CA. I feel extremely honored to be working with such compassionate individuals. Every staff member is there to help each child reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.
Working in Learning Center once a week has it's challenges. Helping kids in second, third and fourth grades with their homework, finding ways to relate until you see that light come on in their eyes because they now understand something new. Sharing a story that enables thoughtfulness so their minds engage learning as something they want to do.
All of us can make a difference by donating money or time that gives back to our community. Every child deserves the opportunity to be in a safe, positive place after school where they can meet other kids their age and participate in supervised activities that help them grow and mature into outstanding adults. Together we can help the leaders of tomorrow with our experience today, so their futures are certain for greatness.
Will you become active in your community and volunteer with The Boys and Girls Clubs of America? The time you invest with these kids makes an amazing difference in their lives and don´t be surprised at the difference it makes in you.
For more information The Boys and Girls Club of America
http://www.bgca.org/
SMBGC Santa Monica CA location
http://www.smbgc.org/
Susan Elaine Wheeler
2010 Creative-Perspective-Solutions
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