The Boys & Girls Club Story

Clubs Mobilize for Tornado Victims

Our thoughts go out to communities in Oklahoma, in Texas and other parts of our heartland as they cope with the devastating damage and loss inflicted by last week’s massive tornados.

Thankfully, our Oklahoma City Club and its members were spared any harm. Further south in Texas, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hood County suffered damages to one unit. But the brunt of the destruction was borne by its members, including 40 kids whose homes were completely destroyed. To support the Club with an online donation, go to BGCHoodCounty.org. Or make a $10 donation by texting the word HOOD to 80888. (Data and text rates may apply.)

In the wake of this tragedy, our Boys & Girls Club family has, once again, stepped up. Take, for instance, the Boys & Girls Clubs of West Central Wisconsin’s Karen DeSanto and Michael Johnson of the Boys & Girls Club of Dane County, Wis. As part of an eight-vehicle convoy, they helped deliver 26 volunteers and $15,000 in supplies to Oklahoma City. Similar efforts are taking place throughout the country, from Texas to Arkansas, from Michigan to California.

A shout-out to all the Club staff and members who have mobilized in support of tornado victims – your hard work and generosity to assist communities in need are cherished.

Seeking Heroes for Our Kids

Seeking Heroes for Our Kids
When kids fail in school, everyone loses. This is not a school or parent issue; this is a community issue. It affects our economy and the strength of our nation.

To understand some of the many challenges of our current public education system, view Waiting for "Superman," a documentary which follows five young people as they try to find the best education available in their neighborhoods. While the film, directed by Academy Award winner Davis Guggenheim, may not have all of the answers, we know that each of us can contribute to the solution.

Community-based organizations, such as Boys & Girls Clubs, can make a difference in the academic success of our children. Through programs that address education, healthy choices, character and leadership and more, Clubs can guide young people through the challenges they face in and out of school, while helping them to discover their interests and aspirations. Clubs are there for youth after the school bell rings, giving them options to learn, grow and develop into responsible adults.