BGCNCG Youth Named Semi-Finalist at State Comp

Griggs “shines” a message of positivity 

Ricquaria Griggs believes in empowering others – it’s a message she’s been spreading since joining Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club in 2012. It was there within the walls of her Boys & Girls Club that she found her inner voice and confidence to start sharing her positivity. And, it was on stage at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Georgia Youth of the Year competition she heard her inner voice say, “I’m here.”

‘Here’ was hearing her name being called as a semi-finalist in the state-wide competition, where she competed against more than 30 youth from Georgia Clubs. 

The statewide competition was a three-day competition, which consisted of interviews, essays and speeches focusing on how Boys & Girls Clubs impacted the youth.

For Griggs, the impact was easy to name – “the Club taught me to love myself and how I can in return take that love and give it to my community.”

And even though she didn’t take home the title of state-wide Youth of the Year, Griggs keeps echoing two words, “I’m here.”

“After the winner was announced a fellow Youth of the Year said to me, ‘but, I’m here’ and I couldn’t help but reflect on the meaning of those two words for my life and my future,” she shared. “Wherever I am meant to be and whatever I am truly meant to pursue, I will get there because I was here – because this Club and organization believed in me and because I believed in myself.”

Among those gathered to support Ricquaria was Greene County High School Principal, James Peek, who shared his excitement in her successes. 

“It has been a tremendous experience attending this Youth of the Year ceremony. We at Greene County High School are very proud of Ricquaria’s accomplishments,” he shared. “She is an outstanding student and tremendous leader in our community. I know that she is on the path to do great things in the future.”

For Mike Conrads, a Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia advisory board member and donor toward the Youth of the Year program, watching Ricquaria grow was an immense honor to participate in. 

“Shine is the word – Ricquaria is amazing,” he shared. “She’s such a great representative and she truly has her act together. She knows where she’s going, so humble and just a wonderful spirit. It’s been wonderful to watch her grow through this last year.”

Conrads added, “She’s going to be a superstar in the future – she already is.”

“She’s going to be leader and she is going to come back to our community and give back – that’s her.”

During the course of the last year, Ricquaria was been named Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year, as well as the organization wide Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia Youth of the Year. Her accomplishments are marked by her unrelenting dedication to grow as a leader, as well as an individual. 

Bob Mackey, President & CEO of BGCNCG, said “We are so proud of Ricquaria. She truly lives and breathes our mission statement in her own community efforts to ensure every youth reaches their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.”

“Her accomplishments also echo our core commitment to continue fostering great futures for our youth in North Central, as this marks the second year a youth from our organization was named a semi-finalist in this competition,” he added. “We’re also so grateful for the individuals who helped prepare Ricquaria for this competition. Thank you, Linda and Mike Conrads, June and Michael Tompkins, Terressa and Kim Jensen for helping prep her for the sessions.”

For Ricquaria, her future is bright and sure to be something “amazing.”

“Because of my local Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club and the Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia, I was given the opportunity to share my story and inspire others along the way,” she shared. “I now have the confidence to keep striving to be successful. I can’t wait to see what’s next for me because I know it is going to be something amazing!”

Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s National Youth of the Year recognition program empowers young people to reach their full potential by providing youth with access to the tools they need to build the great futures they imagine.

Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia’s vision is to provide a world-class experience that assures success is within reach of every young person who enters its doors.

For more information or to donate, visit www.bgcncg.com. If you’d like to get involved, please contact 770-267-8034. 

Belles & Bowties Shines for Youth

Walton County was dressed in its finest and ready to open its hearts for the Youth of the Walton County Boys & Girls Club at its annual Belles & Bowties fundraiser. As guests arrived, they were greeted and escorted in by Club members. The venue, The Engine Room, was dawned with hues of Boys & Girls Club blue and the faces of Club members were hanging from every wall to each guest table. 

A silent auction kicked the night off, as well as unique raffle games and a center piece art table hand crafted by the WCBGC members. 

“We couldn’t be happier with the giving nature of our community,” Ross Bradley, WCBGC Advisory Board Chair shared. “During our live auction, I was blown away by the unrelenting support of those gathered for the greatest cause - our youth.”

The live auction featured Fox 5 News Reporter and Auctioneer, George Franco and it did not disappoint. 

Guests placed bids on lots of exclusive items, including such items as a trip to Cuba and a golf experience package in California. 

Overall the evening was all about the youth, as Ronny Monford, WCBGC Youth of the Year shared his Club experience. 

“This place has changed my life forever,” he shared. “I’ve grown to understand the importance of giving back to your community, setting positive examples and taking care of the youth coming up behind me.”

Monford shared that his Club experience has culminated in taking him from a “troubled youth” to a shining light – mentioning highlights like being named to a national Boys & Girls Clubs of America steering committee for Keystone Club. 

The funds raised from Belles & Bowties are used to assist the Club in all its daily operations and continue to foster great futures.

“Walton County Boys & Girls Club are celebrating their 17th year of serving this community,” Bob Mackey, Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia President & CEO, shared. “We couldn’t have made the impact we have without the helping hands of this community. It’s truly an exciting time for our Walton Club. We thank you for being a part of this movement.”

To learn more about Walton County Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcncg.comor call 770-207-6279.

Walton County Boys & Girls Club: February Highlights

Walton County Boys & Girls Club

Lynn E. Hill

Club Director

I often speak with the Board of Directors, Staff, Parents, and especially the Members, of the idea of developing a positive and network within our community of Monroe, Georgia and Walton County through the Members of the Boys & Girls Club.  I often portray the picture to the Members to understand that they will create communities that will be positive, and one where they all can benefit from.  I want them always to understand that it will begin right here, at their local Boys & Girls Club.  I also emphasized how important it is for them to stay involved and participate in the programs that are given here at the Boys & Girls Club, so that they can be equipped to work out the vision set forth for them.  One of the components of building their network and communities is investing in the future of the youth financially

WCBGC Names Youth of the Month

Celebrating our Youth 

Walton County Boys & Girls Club celebrates its members and their accomplishments. This month the Club is Youth of the Month Makai Robinson.

Makai has been a member of the Club ever since he was 6 years old.

“He always wants to you to know that he is special, and he proves it by being one of the first to want to read aloud his books in the Learning Center, as well excelling in all of the physical activities held in the gym,” WCBGC Director, Lynn E. Hill, shared. “His smile is always captivating, and his manners always captures your attention.”

Being named Youth of the Month is a credit to the youth’s character and shown leadership abilities within the Club.

“My Walton Club helps me excel in my homework, especially when I don’t understand the material. Everyone here cares about my wellbeing and I have fun here,” Makai shared. 

For one volunteer Makai helped showcase you can make a difference in a child’s life.

“As a volunteer of the Club, I found myself nervous as to whether I could make a difference in their lives with the activities that I would engage the Members in.  Makai would confirm my success with them.  He would always come back to me and tell me what he thought of my activity that I shared with them,” Sherrie Blare shared. “Whenever we have art projects to do in the Art Room he not only cleans up his work afterwards, but he helps other members clean up and that is something rare and unique.  Makai is a very smart kid, with a great future ahead of him.”

Makai’s character sparks joy for Club staff and reminds them why they’re work matters every day he enters the Club. 

“There is a uniqueness about this young individual that I haven’t seen in a long time, as I have worked with youth at the Boys & Girls Club,” Hill shared. “I find him very encouraging and an inspiration to myself personally and our Club members.”

To learn more about Walton County Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcncg.com/waltonclubor call 770-207-6279. 

WCBGC Prepare Artwork for Belles & Bowties

Walton County Boys & Girls Club members have been busy over the last few weeks preparing artwork to be displayed at the Club’s Belles & Bowties special event. The artwork varies from paints to drawings. 

Club members were given the opportunity to prepare for the event by learning protocol and procedures for the event, as they are advised by mentors in the Passport to Manhood Programs, while other Club Members participated by creating colorful art designs on canvass frames.  These projects will be transported to the Belles & Bowties event, in which the paintings, portraits, and projects will be held in a silent auction and the proceeds with help to benefit the Club. 

“We want to co-ordinate with the Advisory Board, volunteers and staff, who work with these Members to give it their best creative thoughts to express art in such a way that the guests of the event will want to not only bid on their work, but come out to the Club and meet these future artists and graphic designers. Great Futures in the Arts can really start here, too,” Lynn E. Hill, WCBGC Director, shared. 

Club member Allen Giddens looks around at the art being created and shares, “It feels good to know that I can do something to help out my Club.  It really means a lot to me!”

“The most fulfilling piece for the setup for the Belles & Bowties Event is to see these Club members feel important about their work, boosting their self-esteem, and having a healthy sense of pride in what they do and how they feel about themselves and the ways that they can influence others in their community,” Hill shared. 

Sherrie Blare, a volunteer at WCBGC, is leading the artwork preparation and said “The kids seem to really enjoy this project, not only because it is fun to create a project in art, but they are really excited that someone is going to view their work and buy their work so that we could raise monies for their Club.”

“I never realized how enjoyable painting at this level could be.  It just goes to show you how the simple things in life, such as creative art design can relieve stress and take you away from the problems of the world,” she added. “It is so healthy for these kids to escape the hardships at home, school, or community, and be at this Club where their creativity can help them overcome growing pains.  

To learn more about Walton County Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcncg.com/waltonclubor call 770-207-6279.

WCBGC Step Team Shines

Volunteer Gives Back 

Twenty-five young girls of the Walton County Boys & Girls Club spend Friday’s in the Club practicing together as the Golden Steppers – a step team. Their ages range from 8 to 12-years-old and in the month of March they’ll have their first debut performances – one placing them at the University of Georgia. 

“When I first walked through the doors of the Club and met the step team, my heart immediately longed for the opportunity to work with these youth,” WCBGC Volunteer Taylor Butts, shared. 

Serving as their choreographer, Taylor has found a home in volunteering at the Club. 

“With so much energy and uniqueness, that I found here, I knew that this was the place for me to come and volunteer.  The director and staff were so welcoming that I felt a high sense of inclusion and they made me feel as if I belonged here to do good work for these youth,” she said.

Each Friday, the young girls begin by listening to Taylor share a positive lesson and begins each session and practice with a warm-up, stretch, and lecture on life lessons and she’s taking a page from the WCBGC way in what type of stories she finds to share. 

“The Director explained to me the three things that they accomplish in each member that attends the Club. That is for them to build good character, be healthy and become academically successful,” she said. “I come to the Club as a volunteer who believes in those same principles, and I am so happy to be a part of this success climb.”

For Club Director, Lynn E. Hill, Taylor has been such an asset to the Club.

“Taylor has been such a role model for our young girls and we’re so excited for their upcoming performances,” he said. “She shares an energy with these Club members that just displays a wonderful connection between the members and herself.”

The youth will perform March 16 at University of Georgia for a step show fundraiser, in which of the proceeds will return back to the Boys & Girls Club, here in Walton County. Their other performance in March will be a benefit program for drug awareness and crime prevention.

“I love to work with youth, especially in a place that is geared towards helping youth succeed,” Taylor shared. “Volunteering is truly fulfilling, especially when you can see the difference that you are making, while you are working.”

To learn more about Walton County Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcncg.com/waltonclubor call 770-207-6279.

MMBGC member shares Club experience

Celebrating Club Members

Madison-Morgan County Boys & Girls Clubcelebrates its members and their accomplishments. This month the Club is highlighting new member, Kemaya B.

Kemaya recently joined the Basketball league at MMBGC and has enjoyed getting to meet new friends. 

“I’ve been learning this year how to be nice, kind and respectful,” she shared. “The Club staff are so easy to talk to when you’re struggling with homework or a personal issue. They’re always here for you.”

Karen Robertson, Senior Executive Club Director, said she’s seen Kemaya blossom since coming to the Club.

““I have noticed that Kemaya B. has been growing in character leadership since she has learned the BGC Way,” Karen said. “She’s truly committed to becoming a leader here.”

For Tabitha Lowe, MMBGC Program Coordinator, watching a youth grow at the Club is a joy.

“Kemaya B.  has a great personality and is excited about being at the Club,” she said. “I saw her very involved and engaged in basketball practice and Smart Girls Club. We want our youth to grow into who they are meant to become and help foster their desires here.”

Volunteer, Caitlin O., sees the intention of the MMBGC programming. 

“I enjoy helping and watching Kemaya leadership skills. Since the time I began volunteering, Kemaya embodies how impactful all programs are to members here at the Club.”

To learn more about Madison-Morgan County Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcncg.comor call 706-342-1117.

MMBGC Parent Dance Program Kicks Off!

Dance Program Kicks Off

 For the month of February, you might have heard the music a little bit louder than usual at the Madison-Morgan County Boys & Girls Club. To kick off Heart Healthy month, MMBGC invited Club parents in for a Dance class all month long.

 “We wanted our parents to come to the Club, have a fun time learning and engage with our staff members,” Tabitha Lowe, MMBGC Program Director shared. “Our Club members loved having their parents in the Club and enjoyed watching their parents set aside reservations to jump in line and learn to dance to different styles.”

 For Shontell W., a Club parent, the dance class was a thrill.

 “I am enjoying every bit of this class because I am learning how to use my feet and my body in direction that I never could before,” she shared. “This class has really brought our Club moms together and I’ve gained new friends, which I hear my child share with me all the time –  ‘I made a new friend.’”

 “We really wanted our parents to see first-hand the kind of bonding and learning goes on inside our Clubs by offering the experience to them,” Tabitha shared. 

 “I have noticed that parents look forward to the class every week and that they recognize that this class helps them physically, emotionally, and mentally,” she added. “It’s been such a joy to teach this class alongside our parents.”

 To learn more about Madison-Morgan County Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcncg.comor call 706-342-1117.

MMBGC Club Alumni: "This Club is Family to me"

Why Volunteering at her Club matters

For former Madison-Morgan County Boys & Girls Club member, Artelia B., coming back to volunteer at her local Club reminds her about the joys of being apart of the Boys & Girls Club movement. 

“I was a Club member for four years,” she shared. “This place taught me how to be a successful adult by helping hone in on my skills to showcase interests I could have in my future. I’ve excited to be a part of that teaching for the youth here today.”

If Artelia had to choose one word to describe the atmosphere of the Club she would choose “family.”

“When I was here as a Club member, my Club felt like my family and they helped me to surprise myself with the achievements I accomplished here,” she shared. “While I’m here volunteering, I’ll be focusing on helping Club members with their homework, confidence and assisting with our Smart Girls Program, which empowers our young girls within our Club.”

Tabitah Lowe, Madison-Morgan County Boys & Girls Club Program Director, said having Ms. Artelia back in the Club is a joyous sight to see.  

“When we have Club members here, we always share how you’re a Club member for life – and you are,” she shared. “We care about the whole child and their development into adulthood and how we may support them as an adult. She’s been giving important insights to our members during our Smart Girls Program that I know these young women will never forget. This is what our movement is about – creating the next generation of productive adults giving back!”

To learn more about Madison-Morgan County Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcncg.comor call 706-342-1117.

PNBGC Announces Youths of the Month for March

Celebrating Club Leaders

For Club members at Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club being named Youth of the Month is a high honor. Every month a youth is recognized for modeling their leadership abilities. 

For the month of March, PNBGC named Ja’Layla K. as Youth of the Month 

“Ja’Layla has grown into a leader within the Club by following Club rules and helping out despite being a Club member for only a short period of time,” Diedra Richbow, PNBGC Program Coordinator shared. “Our Youth of the Month is a Club-driven experience that fosters leadership within the Club and Ja’Layla is a shining example of what it takes to be a leader.” 

For the month of March, PNBGC named Ariana R. as Junior Youth of the Month.

“Ariana R. has shown a huge growth in her attitude and takes the initiative to participate in programs and with helping out around the club. Ariana has also show a huge improvement in her grades and behavior,” Diedra Richbow, PNBGC Program Coordinator shared. “Our Youth of the Month is a Club-driven experience that fosters leadership within the Club and Ariana is a shining example of where a positive attitude can take you.”

PNBGC members read with a helping paw

Reading is a crucial part of childhood development and according to the National Education Association, reading doesn’t just impact verbal and written skills, but mathematics as well. 

With these statistics in mind, Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club members are currently engaged in a fun-filled program where children practice reading to their best fur friends. 

K-9 Angels is a reading program with Canine Assistants service dogs and volunteers geared to help Club members practice reading skills and become more confident in their ability to read.

“Our Club members really look forward to the dogs coming into our Club,” Diedra Richbow, PNBGC Program Coordinator shared. “Most of our youth seem to naturally love animals - especially dogs. Imagine the joy and excitement this gives to the members as they read to the dogs. They’re less focused on feeling uncomfortable reading in front of their peers and more engaged in reading their stories to their new-found fur friends.”

Club member, Kayden D., shares she loves reading books to her favorite dog Memphis.

“Memphis loves any book I read to him and it’s a lot of fun to reading to the dogs,” she shared. 

Richbow says that since the K-9 Angels program arrived to Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club, Club members have exceeded their growth in NWEA MAP reading. Currently, 80 percent of members participate in this program.

To learn more about Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcncg.com/petenanceor call 706-920-1400. 

Volunteering to see ‘positive impacts’

Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club volunteer Carol Kuhn sees the Club as an asset to Greene County’s community its families – that’s why she’s committed to being in the youth’s lives at the Club. Whether its tutoring during Power Hour or listening to younger Club members share their dreams, Carol knows it’s important to be present. 

“There’s no better way to make a difference in a child’s life than personal interaction and genuine interest in them,” she shared. “I see PNBGC as a needed resource to help offer that interaction and support and that’s why I keep giving back here – I want to continue to see that positive impact in our youth.”

When asked about an impactful moment to choose from Kuhn said it’s every day moments that tug on her heart strings. 

“During a one-to-one tutoring session with a high school student, I was able to connect with her on something she was having a difficult time understanding,” she said. “We were able to get her caught up in that one session so when she returned to class the next day she was on the same page with her fellow classmates. Being able to help that Club member was such a privilege and joy.”

Volunteering at the Club, for Kuhn, helps offer moments like this to Club members every day and gives members and even larger support group of adults cheering them on. 

“This Club is building better futures and instilling character-building qualities into its youth,” she shared.

To learn more about Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club visit, www.bgcncg.com/petenanceor call 706-920-1400.

PNBGC teens tours Georgia College

BECOMING COLLEGE READY

College is an important next step for many teens approaching their junior year of high school. For the Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club teens and tweens college preparation is a daily part of their conversation amongst peers and staff members, as a part of the Diplomas 2 Degrees program. During their winter break, youth of PNBGC visited Georgia College.

“Our teens were able to observe anactive campus atmosphere while learning about the requirements and responsibilities expected of first-year students,” Brad Parr, PNBGC Director shared. “They also received an extensive overview of tuition requirements, housing options, majors offered, meal plans, intramural sports and extracurricular activities available at Georgia College.”

For Club member Annie H. walking around Georgia College’s campus was exciting, as she imagined what being a college student would look like after graduation. 

“We got the opportunity to walk around campus, which was exciting because we got to see college students going to classes and hanging out around campus. The tour guide showed us the dorm rooms, apartments, classrooms, recreational center, library and The Max,” she shared. 

More importantly Annie noted that she enjoyed learning how you pick your classes and where you can receive tutoring. 

“It’s important to me to visit colleges, so I can have ideas about going to college and what college life is like,” she said. 

Other Club members enjoyed the in-depth look at the cost for college, which instilled the important of obtaining good grades in high school for potential scholarships opportunities.

“I loved touring the library and learning about class structures, as well as receiving credit for tutoring – it seems this school really cares about you succeeding,” Club member Adarius W shared. “I was also surprised to learn about the bus service on campus and loved the basketball gym.”

Ultimately, the goal for college visits are to help PNBGC teens and tweens, not only dream about their future, but discover ways to work toward their goals.

“We want our teens to succeed any everything they set their minds to and for some college can be truly a daunting new adventure,” Parr said. “Our program Diplomas 2 Degrees focuses on elevating the fear of college, while helping our teens file applications, practice interviewing and discuss where they may want to pursue a higher education past high school.”

To learn more about Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club visit, www.bgcncg.com/petenanceor call 706-920-1400

PNBGC Honors Community Supporters

“You are the lifeblood of what we do,” Mike O’Neal, Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club Advisory Board President said to over sixty donors and volunteers gathered at Da Corrado Ristorante. The occasion was to celebrate the gifts given in 2018 and the gifts collectively the community can give by staying present in youths lives in 2019.

 “Time, talent and treasures are the gifts donors and volunteers offer to the Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club,” he said. “Many of you have offered all three of these elements to our youth and cause. For me, this year my focus is on what’s best for our young people.”

O’Neal shared that he knew each of those gathered shared this sentiment and commitment to youth. 

The luncheon was comprised of businesses, donors, volunteers and staff members of Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club. It was the largest amount for PNBGC Donor and Volunteer Luncheon, which O’Neal said was a testament to the growth of those involved and seeing the need for changing lives in Greene County. 

Brad Parr, PNBGC Director, shared a few words before awards were given at the celebration luncheon. 

Parr stressed the importance of community backing and thanked those present for being part of an exciting year at PNBGC.

“In 2018 we increased our academic focus and added several new programs to our Club,” he shared. “Our First Tee program grew tremendously, and we were able to offer our youth a golfing experience at Harbor Club, which for many youths was a highlight for them.”

Parr said, “We are looking forward to continuing to bring on board new programming, which engage our youth in unique ways for positive outcomes.”

Past PNBGC Advisory Board President, Jim Liebeck, took over the celebration to present awards.

Those who received awards were:

·     Business Partner of the Year – Harbor Club

·     Volunteer of the Year – Don Loft

·     Board Member of the Year -Millicent Zamirowski

·     Rookie of the Year – Bill Graden

·     Special Honoree of the Year – Kara Latz

Board members who are retiring from the PNBCG board were also honored at the luncheon. Those board members were:

·     Dottie Suggs

·     Paul Connolly

·     Jennifer Lackey 

·     Norm Agran 

Last but not least, Da Corrado Ristorante was honored for stepping in to help continue facilitating Thursday Dinners at the Club where youth get to experience different cuisines. 

To learn more about Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club visit, www.bgcncg.com/petenanceor call 706-920-1400.

Newton Federal Bank Shares Passion for Youth

Newton Federal Bank knows first-hand the importance of providing for the community’s youth, as several employees personally put youth first. 

“We see the need in the community for Newton County Boys & Girls Club to be here – it’s a natural fit,” John Smith, Newton Federal Bank President, shared. “I’ve been involved in youth all my life. It’s very important to me and my family.”

Nita Thompson, a NCBGC board member, shared her excitement in Newton Federal Bank’s partnership. 

“It says a lot for a community business to have the foresight to see the importance of a Boys & Girls Club being here in Newton County,” she said. “Their continued support will help us provide the opportunity to make positive impacts in the lives of Newton County children.” 

“Because of community members like Newton Federal Bank we are able to bring hope & opportunity to Newton County youth,” Bob Mackey, Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia CEO & President shared. “We are excited for the ongoing partnership we will have with Newton Federal Bank.”

To learn more about Newton County Boys & Girl Club, visit www.bgcncg.com/newtoncounty or call 770-267-8034. 

Celebrating WCBGC Teen of the Month

For Walton County Boys & Girls Club members being named Teen of the Month is a big deal - it’s highlighting those Club members growth and leadership skills within the Club. 

Teen member of the Month, Jashanti S., who’s been a member for six years, said “I am glad I can come here and talk to other people about different ideas and try new things.”

She notes that she appreciates how the staff helps her work on her speaking skills and character. 

Jashanti was recognized as Teen of the Month for her leadership during Power Hour, where Club members work together on their homework. 

“She’s the first Club member to initiate homework and always guiding others to participate in Power Hour,” Lynn E. Hill, Walton County Boys & Girls Club Director shared. “What I am most proud of in Jashanti is that she’s learning to use her voice more in regard to voicing her concerns about the community, her school, her church, and life in general.”

Hill said that Jashanti’s grades have improved tremendously because she’s been “communicating more with her Club staff and the teachers at her school. She’s helped in connecting us to what work she needs the most help in. She’s always eager to get tutored and work on her homework.”

Jashanti says she’s thankful for her WCBGC mentor who tutors her, Tony Dillard. 

“Jashanti is extremely creative, loves dance and dreams of being a choreographer.  Jashanti has identified many of her strengths since joining the B&G Club of Walton,” Dillard shared. “She includes others in her conversations and is very respectful. The calm, wise and mature way she handles herself is evident in every interaction, every time. Jashanti is an asset to our Club and a natural born leader.”

To learn more about Walton County Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcncg.com/waltonclub or call 770-207-6279.

Walton County Boys & Girls Club: January Highlights

Walton County Boys & Girls Club

Lynn E. Hill

Club Director

The Walton County Boys & Girls Club has wrapped up another wonderful month in scholastic activities, character building, and developing lifestyles through the “BGC Way.”  In the month of January, we celebrated the advancements of Character Development by holding oratorical speeches made by our Youth of the Year, Mr. Ronnie Monford, III, who quoted in his speech, “Feed your passions, and starve your fears.” This speech was made as a highlight of celebration honoring the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., on January 18th, 2019.  On Friday, January 25th, 2019, the Walton Club introduced a new program, held during Assembly entitled, “Great Futures Start Here Spotlight”, in which Club Members can be recognized for their many accomplishments in academics, programs, or such talents as singing, dancing, rapping, poem-writing, and much more.  We also completed the month of January with a celebration of birthdays, an announcement of our newest volunteer, Mrs. Sherrie Blare, who introduced to our SMART Girls, an activity called, “Adult Coloring”, which brought out the creative energy of these girls, ages 10-14 years old, The Walton Club strives for amazing endeavors in the month of February 2019.

WCBGC Partners with Monroe Area High School

The Walton County Boys & Girls Club recently developed a partnership with the Monroe Area High School highlighting the Special Needs Program of the School and the other Youth served at the Boys & Girls Club.  Each Friday, the group comes to the Club and makes a presentation to the members of the Club as well.  Club Director, Lynn E. Hill, presents with a certificate of appreciation for this groups willingness to present weekly to Club youth. Tangela Hester, Paraprofessional Coordinator, is present on behalf of the Monroe Area High School 

Putting a ‘Spotlight’ on WCBGC Talents

What if you could share your talents with your peers, cheered on to pursue your passions and get useful critique from your peers to improve your skills? This happens every day in the 

Walton County Boys & Girls Club with its new Spotlight program, which helps Club members see the potential in their talents and have a support system to allow them to explore those talents. 

“We have so many youths with a variety of great ideas and directions they want to go in for their future,” Lynn E. Hill, WCBGC Director shared. “We wanted to give a space for our youth to showcase those talents and create a community of support for them. Those talents range from dancing to writing – to athletics.” 

During assembly’s every Friday at the Club, members have the opportunity to share a new song they learned, a new poem they wrote or share a new basketball skill for the court – everyone has an opportunity to showcase a talent. 

“This experience of being in the ‘Spotlight’ at the Club will help me be less shy and do what I love to do – singing,” Ricky R., WCBGC Club member shared. 

Mr. Hill said every Friday the Club youth arrive and are “excited about the opportunity to be recognized by those talents that they knew they had.  They just want a chance to prove it to the Club and beyond.”

A Club volunteer shared that this new program teaches important life skills such as character building and conflict resolution.  The positive effects of our program are easily seen when you watch the members learn and use new ways of communicating with each other, even more so, their gifts and talents.

To learn more about Walton County Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcncg.com/waltonclub or call 770-207-6279.