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Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota:
Making a Difference for 40 Years
By Lalaena Gonzalez-Figueroa
Photography by Chad Spencer
Since 1970, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County has served an invaluable role in the lives of young people throughout the region. An organization designed to provide a safe and welcoming environment for kids ranging from 6-18 years of age, the Club has adhered to a philosophy that all are welcome. “We are here to help those who need us the most,” states Tamara Davis Chapman, Director of Marketing and Events. “We will not turn away a child or family who seek our support.”
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota offers an array of services and programs created to meet the needs of today’s youth and their families. Comprised of four clubs and six 21st Century Learning Centers at local elementary and middle schools, the organization touches upwards of 8,000 kids at a given time, providing an array of programs intended to support and motivate club members in their academic, social and personal endeavors.
At The Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County, the aim is to not only meet the basic needs of area children, but to also provide opportunities for enrichment and outlets for creativity. Chapman notes, “Recent studies show that one in seven people in Sarasota County is food insecure; they don’t know where their next meal is going to come from.” Understanding that nutrition is a keystone in a foundation of learning and overall well-being, during the summer the Boys & Girls Clubs offer hot lunches, and throughout the year offer healthy snacks, and opportunities for additional meals through the Clubs’ Culinary program—all at no costs to the kids. The Club’s range of activities include programs that teach money management; drug, alcohol and sexual abuse awareness and prevention; homework assistance; volunteerism; and business development. An arts and crafts program features opportunities for Club members to discover their talents in a myriad of creative outlets, including writing, dance, tactile arts and crafts, photography and digital arts. Healthy minds and healthy bodies unite through a comprehensive sports, fitness and recreation program that includes swimming, basketball leagues, judo and rock climbing.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County touts itself as a second home for its members, and Chapman points out that the organization provides much more than a place for kids to play after school. “We have cultivated a really positive environment where our members are valued, and where they have opportunities to discover their potential,” she explains. “It’s a fun place, our kids come here because they want to; then again, many of our members have no place else to go during after-school hours and during the summer.”
In fact, statistics show that, nationwide, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America is making a tremendous impact on the youth communities it serves. According to published reports, 95% of the organization’s members indicated that the Clubs were the best opportunities available in their local communities, with 52% noting that the club saved their lives. Within Sarasota County, Club members boast higher-than-average high school graduation rates, with lower-than-average teen pregnancy rates. While many members of The Boys & Girls Clubs of America are labeled as disadvantaged, their potential is limitless. The organization’s alumni list includes former President Bill Clinton, Michael Jordan, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, and Neil Diamond. Chapman reveals that a large majority of the Club’s local counselors and employees were once members themselves. “We have such a loyal and giving group of individuals,” she says. “It’s amazing. We have cultivated a wonderful family atmosphere here, where all are accepted.”
REALTOR® Charlotte Hedge, with The Hedge Team at Signature Sotheby’s International Realty, is a longtime supporter of The Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County. She and her husband Tom have been involved with the organization since 1993, serving in leadership positions, fundraising, and volunteering their time and skills. Explains Hedge, “With so many charitable organizations in our area, it’s difficult to select one to support. But what we really appreciate about The Boys & Girls Clubs is that a high percentage of monies donated go directly into programs for the members. Statistics show that the Clubs make a positive difference in the lives of its members, providing them with support and opportunities that every child should have.”
While The Boys & Girls Club of Sarasota County requests a nominal membership fee for every member, Chapman notes that no one is turned away for lack of funds. The organization relies heavily on the generosity of local donors, whose monetary gifts have a tremendous impact on the futures of countless children. “Like so many residents of Sarasota County, The Boys & Girls Club has felt the impact of the economic shift,” acknowledges Chapman. “Still, we are grateful to our community for the ongoing support we have received.” She adds, “We continue to rely on the donations of local residents, so that we may continue to provide our members with the guidance, direction and support that they need.”
Your donation will make a difference in the life of a local child.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County
P.O. Box 4068
Sarasota, FL 34230
Telephone: 941-366-3911
www.BoysAndGirlsClubs.com [2]
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