Congratulations to Jashanti from Walton County Boys & Girls Club for being named our Regional Youth of the Year!
Meet our newest WCBGC Club member, Nickolas!
Walton County Boys & Girls Club welcomes Nickolas Williams as its newest member this month.
“Nickolas comes in ready to go to the gym to play basketball or football with the rest of the guys,” Kelsey Malcom, WCBGC Teen Director, shared. “Though he is new to the Club, it did not take him long to get comfortable with the rest of the students in the 10-12 group or getting to know some of the teens. One of the teens, Lavor Booker, took Nickolas under his wing and taught him the fundamentals of football. After a few plays he started to catch on and became more excited about playing with the guys.”
For Nickolas the Club is where to be!
“I can’t wait to jump off the bus every day to come into the Club,” he shared. “I give Ms. Kim my phone and I go have fun with my friends.”
Program Director Mequelle Jones shared that Nickolas’ excitement to be at the Club is a reflection of how youth arrive to the Club.
“Every day he rushes by Ms. Kim, Ms. Sharon, and I to get to the gym. It is funny to watch him speed by us, he says hi and he keeps it moving,” she said. “All of our youth have a special place within the Club they can’t wait to get to and make life-long friends.”
To learn more or join the Walton County Boys & Girls Club visit, www.bgcncg.com/waltonclub.
Alum Kyvin Thompson Joins WCBGC
Kyvin Thompson knows the value of the Boys & Girls Club. Once a member who walked the halls of Walton County Boys & Girls Club, Kyvin returned recently as a Youth Development Professional.
Kyvin attended Fort Valley State University where he studied biology. He hopes to continue to develop in his YDP position with his aim set on becoming a Club director. During his time as a Club member, Kyvin was named Youth of the Year.
“Now that I’m back, all I feel is relief,” Kyvin shared. “This building and community bring me back to where things make sense. When I walk through the doors, it feels like I’m home and is still my safe place after all these years.”
Kyvin is recruiting and organizing a basketball team for the Walton Club.
“We’ll focus on having fun and learning the rules and skills needed for basketball on and off the court,” he shared.
He hopes to be able to share with youth too that he was once them.
“I want to share that, ‘I was you, we all were, we know some of what you are going through, times have changed, but we are willing to adapt and learn with you,’” he said.
Youth were introduced to Kyvin recently and learned how he benefited from the Walton Club growing up.
“I know Kyvin will continue to be an asset to all Club members who walk through our doors as he truly demonstrates what a GREAT leader can do and accomplish,” Kelsey Malcom, WCBGC Teen Director, shared.
To learn more about Walton County Boys & Girls Club visit www.bgcncg.com/waltonclub.
12 Days of Christmas Fun at WCBGC!
BGCNCG Youth of the Year Annual Fitting
Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia took their Youths of the Year shopping in Athens Georgia recently in addition to a lunch catered to teaching proper etiquette regarding eating, dress for interviews, and day-to-day professionalism in the workplace.
The youth were able to enjoy a tasty meal from Raffertys where they learned silverware placement, tips for ordering and consuming food in a proper manner, in addition to other fundamental eating etiquette skills. The goal of this activity is to set up our youth for success in the event they experience an interview in a casual setting such as lunch in order to set them up for success.
After eating lunch, the youth spent a few hours picking out a professional wardrobe that included dress pants, a blouse, jacket/cardigan, shoes, and jewelry. Before shopping, the youth were able to learn about the basics of selecting professional attire from Mr. Mike Conrads and Ms. Diedra Richbow. The youth were able to connect face-to-face for the first time due to virtual sessions and they were able to enjoy each other’s' company while putting their knowledge into practice.
Since 1947, Youth of the Year has been Boys & Girls Clubs of America's premier leadership program, distinguishing and celebrating the extraordinary achievements of Club members who embody the values of leadership, service, academic excellence, and healthy lifestyles. Each year, thousands of Club teens participate in local, state, and regional Youth of the Year events. Six teens advance to the National Youth of the Year, where one outstanding young person is named National Youth of the Year. This national teen spokesperson is a role model, leader and advocate for the millions of youths served by Clubs each year and all of America's young people.
For more information about Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central, please visit www.bgcncg.com.
PNBGC Unveils Dr. Mardel Kolls Learning Center
Dr. Mardel Kolls is an educator through and through and her love for children’s ability to learn has been sown into the fabric of Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club over the years. Recently at the grand opening of the Club’s new facility, Dr. Kolls learned that a special room was named after her, “Dr. Mardel Kolls Learning Center.” Through the door of this room are books upon books, table and chairs for exploring the knowledge that rests in every page.
“At first, I was very surprised and overwhelmed to have this honor and thought about the many volunteers that also gave their time, talents and resources to our Club,” she shared. “And then I thought, what a wonderful legacy to leave in this very special place for generations of youth.”
Dr. Kolls journey to PNBGC is through the halls of the local schools and her own understanding of how important those afterschool hours are for youth development.
“In October of 2009, my husband and I moved from California to Georgia to be closer to our sons. We had recently retired from careers in education and were eager to explore our new surroundings in Greensboro. We found no public parks, basketball courts, tennis courts, skate board parks or aquatics centers. What do kids do here after school,” she asked. “As a former school administrator, I went home and looked up state test scores and demographic data, crime and school attendance reports. Dropout rates and teen pregnancies were well above the state averages while academic performance indicators were extremely low. Class sizes were 17-21 students. Why aren’t kids learning here? I volunteered in elementary classrooms for two years in search of answers to that question. The children stole my heart and my journey began to look for ways to start afterschool programs.”
Dr. Kolls had heard that “Boys & Girls Clubs of America changed lives” and met with school officials and community members to gain support. On June 12, 2011, PNBGC opened its doors to children ages 6-13 in a wing of the Greensboro Elementary school.
“Our membership was based on maximum club space capacity and we quickly formed a waiting list of over 100 students. I was familiar with the 21st Century 5-year funded afterschool grant programs in California and decided to apply for funding to serve Grades 5-9. In 2012, the Club opened a Teen Center and the grant program provided enrichment activities and academic support to 180 additional students.”
Dr. Kolls continued as a grant program director for the Club and later became board chair and shares her fondest memories were seeing the changes taking place under the great leadership of Bob Mackey.
“A local restaurant owner thought the kids should have a hot meal once a week and community volunteers came to serve spaghetti dinner to 180 kids on Thursday nights, she shared. “I saw Club members graduating “on-Time” with a post-secondary plan. We had expanded our community support and had brought two very different communities together with a common goal of providing a safe and caring environment after school and during out-of-school times throughout the year.”
For Dr. Kolls the Club saves lives – period.
“I believe everyone has a purpose in life and I think the Club experience helps define that purpose as they learn to share their ideas and talents with others. Many former Boys & Girls Club members often state “The Club saved my life.” Although I was never a member of a Club as a youth, in a way it saved my life as well,” she shared. “You see eight weeks before the Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club opened in 2011, my husband of 48 years died suddenly. We shared the dream of providing afterschool programs of sports, enrichment and activities for local youth, and the difference one person can make in a child’s life.”
Seeing the new facility open is a full circle moment for Dr. Kolls.
“I worked for Parks and Recreation after school programs while attending College. I knew the bonds that form with children and their leaders and the influence one could have on helping children develop confidence through learning new skills,” she shared. “I carried that with me into classrooms at all levels throughout my career. Great Futures Do Start Here.”
PNBGC Unveils Fred W. Brady Mentoring Room
Fred W. Brady always shared that the Club saved his life and now his family and wife, Jere, can continue to see his legacy every visit they take to the new Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club facility.
The Fred W. Brady Mentoring Room is a place where mentoring and relationship building will take place for years to come.
“Fred and I were one of the first to donate to the Club in 2011. Corey Crouse said a fella – i.e. Claude Grizzard - was looking for folks to help start a Club and we agreed to meet with him. The rest is history,” she shared. “Have been involved ever since.”
For Jere the gratifying smiles on children’s faces is why she gives her time to PNBGC.
“The youth deserve our help,” she shared. “It’s so great to see the children in Greensboro have a fabulous facility that they can call their own Don’t think anything has ever been done for just them in the past.”
PNBGC facility receives new name addition: Liz and Claude Grizzard Campus
The Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club sign glistens in the sunlight at the new facility and on the sign is a new addition that reads, “Liz and Claude Grizzard Campus.” Claude Grizzard and his wife have been committed the Boys & Girls Club movement for over 60 years and were integral in the PNBGC coming to life in 2010.
For Claude this new addition to the PNBGC name is deeply meaningful.
“Liz and I were totally shocked when this was announced. It was a complete surprise. The PNBC Club means a lot to me and to Liz also - we were greatly honored by the naming,” he shared. “It gives me and Liz a real sense of pride in what has been accomplished these past 10 years. As I mentioned at the Grand Opening, 1380 kids have been members in the past and many more will be members moving forward.”
Claude first became involved with PNBGC in 2010 to begin fundraising for the Club’s existence. From there Claude served as chair on the initial PNBGC board and saw the Club secure continued support.
“Two things happened later on that really kick-started things in the right direction. In 2012, the Nance family agreed to give the club’s endowment $1 million to name the club the Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club,” he shared. “Then in 2013 Mardel Kolls successfully got us a state 21st. Century grant that meant $2.5 million spread over 5 years for a middle school program we called PEAK.”
Bob Mackey, President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia, shared how Claude Grizzard is a mentor and a friend.
“Claude is always a yes for the youth and it shows through his years of service to the movement, he said. “Having Liz and Claude on the PNBGC is a way to continue to celebrate their offerings for years to come.”
Claude and Liz are happy to see where the Club is now and how far the Club has come from its early days. And, they are confident the Club is in good hands.
“The Club is in excellent hands. We have an almost $3 million endowment, a new state of the art and paid for building, an excellent staff and a lot of kids who are excited about being members of the Club, he said. “The board also has excellent leadership and involved board members.”
To learn more about Pete Nance Boy & Girls Clubs visit, www.bgcncg.com/petenance.
Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club Grand Opening!
The Grand opening for the new Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club of North Central Georgia and ribbon cutting was held on two separate evenings, June 9th and 10th. Both events were well attended, and the new facility drew rave reviews. On Saturday, June 12, an Open House for the public was held to introduce the new building to members, parents, and the public. In two hours, well over two hundred people meandered through the 18,500 sq ft facility and its unique features. In addition to the enormous gym with a basketball court and scoreboards, a games room, learning, and arts center, a Teen center with a recording studio and computer lab, plus the Novelis Lab and common areas. The most frequent comment was “AMAZING!”
PNBCG new facility symbolizes people who love what they do, Bob Mackey, Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia, shared at the June 9 ribbon-cutting ceremony. “Gathered in this room are individuals who love giving back and desire to see our youth succeed,” he said. “This Club will be here for years to come doing exactly that.”
The events coordinator, Debbie Burns, expressed her pleasure with the turnout and thanks to all those who helped plan, organize, and Staff all three showcases. Food was prepared and served by Board member Jacqueline Evans, much to everyone’s delight. Board Chair Mike O’Neal expressed his pride and satisfaction in the outcome, noting that Landmark Construction was excellent to work with on the project. He said that one of Landmark’s superintendents was on a ladder windexing the new glass backboards in the gym right before the grand opening, demonstrating their dedication to every detail. Corporate Board Chair Michael Tompkins also shared that the fundraising efforts went beyond expectations. He appreciated Bank South supporting the Club with a line of credit that, fortunately, will be far less needed than initially anticipated.
On June 9, Fellow Alumni, DJ Wright, spoke about the Club and how it shaped his life to those gathered. “PNBGC believed in me,” he said. “Every day, I would come into the Club sharing how I wanted to be a professional basketball player, and every day, the Club was sewing into me ways to reach for my dreams. Today, I’ve made the dean’s list each semester of my college journey, and I’m proud to say I’ll be serving as the gym instructor inside this amazing facility. I want the youth in front of us tonight to always know they have someone on their side. I want to give back to them what you have given to me.”
The Club name remains the same, but the new facility is now located on the “Liz and Claude Grizzard Campus.” So named to honor Mr. Grizzard’s 60 plus years of volunteer service to the Boys and Girls Club and his support for the Pete Nance Club. Former Club Director and current North Central Georgia Clubs CEO Bob Mackey acknowledged Claude’s dedication and personal inspiration.
Club Director Stacy McClendon is excited to open the new building to members on Monday, June 14. His Staff was signing up new members during the open house. Destiny McClendon (Youth of the Year for Georgia) demonstrated her poise and personality speaking to Congressman Jody Hice and his wife Dede during the open house and her basketball skills shooting hoops on the new court!
Throughout the events, Mr. O’Neal noted that the first donation was received in September 2019, and the capital campaign reached its goal by December 2020, 16 months, in the middle of a pandemic! And the first sign of construction was installing a port o let in August 2020, and just ten months later, the building is now open for our youth. It was a “total team effort,” and he thanked all those involved, especially the generous donors who supported the “Building Solid Foundations” capital campaign.
To learn more about Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcncg.com/petenance.
Facebook Awards BGCNCG Community Action Grant
Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia awarded from Facebook through their 2021 Facebook Community Action Grant.
This grant will support technology in clubs to improve STEM access to students who need it most. With a focus on a makerspace classroom, the equipment will inspire youth to engage in STEM to promote a brighter future.
Facebook shared that the BGCNCG, “makes our community a better place, and we are proud to support their important work.”
The Facebook Community Action Grants program was created to address needs in Newton, Walton, Jasper and Morgan counties by putting technology to use for community benefit, connecting people online or off and improving STEM education.
“We are so grateful for Facebook’s amazing generosity and belief in the work we do for the youth of North Central Georiga,” Bob Mackey, shared. “These funds will help us continue to expand our STEM education offerings across our Clubs. We’re excited to see what great work will come from our Club members because of this gift. Thank you, Facebook!”
To learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia, visit www.bgcncg.com.
David Burbach named Board Member of Year for BGCNCG
Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia recently named David Burbach as its Board Member of the Year for 2020-2021.
David Burbach first arrived at Madison-Morgan Boys & Girls Club when his wife committed them to being a contestant for the first Madison Dancing with the Stars fundraiser. From there, he was hooked on serving the youth of Morgan County.
David became actively involved in the cycling program for MMBGC and was invited to serve on MMCBGC’s board.
“I began to learn more about all the opportunities the Club offers our young people, as well as working with a wonderful group of people who are so positive and dedicated to the mission of the Club,” he shared. “I get to be a small part of an organization that truly loves and cares for the youth of our community and through our actions we provide hope for the children that we serve. It’s priceless.”
One of David’s favorite memories with the youth of MMCBGC is when he asked the teens and tweens of the Club to volunteer in helping teach the younger Club members in the cycling program.
“The older kids eagerly took on leadership and coaching roles,” he shared. “They did everything from helmet fitting and seat adjustments to lining the kids up and keeping them in single file while riding. And best of all, the older ones felt such a sense of pride and the younger ones had such good models to look up to! We all learned from each other.”
David was surprised and humbled to be named Board Member of the Year.
“David Burbach is a wonderful example of what it means to give back to our youth with our time, treasure, and talent,” Bob Mackey, President and CEO of BGCNCG, shared. “He is always eager to show up for the youth of Morgan County and share the impacts of the Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia. He believes in making a positive impact on the youth of today with encouragement and mentorship.”
To learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia visit, www.bgcncg.com.
BGCNCG Names Brad Parr as 2021 Michael C Conrads Professional of the Year
Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia recently recognized Mr. Brad Parr the 2021 Michael C. Conrads Professional of the Year award.
Parr first joined BGCNCG in 2015 as an Education Coordinator for Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club and later transitioned into the Club director position for PNC.
“Throughout his time at PNC, Parr showcased a world-class sensibility of how to show up for our youth in creative and bold ways,” Bob Mackey, President & CEO of BGCNCG.
Mr. Parr was named the Director of Operations for BGCNCG in March 2019. Since then, he has cultivated a rich Youth of the Year program and played significant roles in securing safety for Club youth during the ongoing pandemic.
“Throughout his years here with BGCNCG, Mr. Parr has changed lives, built new programming and remains determined to see that every youth has the opportunity to shine,” Mackey added. “During the beginning of the pandemic, Mr. Parr helped to organize a Safety Committee to implement and maintain response and reopening efforts for our Clubs.”
Mr. Mike Conrads, whom the award is named after, offers his praise of Parr.
“Brad Parr led our organization's COVID-19 Response & Reopening efforts creating and executing our plan that got us open and serving kids quickly last summer and has kept those kids safe with zero cases of infection for our members at our Clubs. He was instrumental in the Barnesville/Lamar County Club's first year of operation and the construction of the new Pete Nance facility in Greene County slated to open this June,” Conrads shared. “He continues to lead our Youth of the Year Program, a difficult challenge given COVID-19 restrictions requiring virtual meetings, yet these efforts are paying dividends with a win at the state level by Destiny. He shoulders all of these additional projects, responsibilities and challenges with a calm determination all the while ensuring BGCNCG's day-to-day operations run smoothly.”
Conrads shared he is “honored by this named award and pleased to give the opportunity to present the 2021 Award to Mr. Parr at BGCNCG's March Board Meeting.
For Parr the honor is humbling.
“Being named the 2021 Michael C. Conrads Professional of the Year is truly an honor because I have had the privilege of working alongside Mr. Conrads for 5 years and I have been able to learn many things from him as the years have gone by, “Parr shared. “I look forward to the future of BGCNCG because of having someone like Mr. Conrads be a part of our organization.”
To learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia visit, www.bgcncg.com.
PNBGC Partners with Local Rotary to form EarlyAct Club
Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club members were inducted into the EarlyAct program sponsored by the Rotary Club of Greene & Putnam Counties recently. EarlyAct is a school-wide service club for elementary students from ages 5 to 13. It is sponsored by local Rotary Clubs and provides opportunities for gaining an increased awareness and knowledge of their community and world.
Club members took turns offering induction speeches, were presented their badges and held a banner presentation for their local EarlyAct program.
“The EarlyAct program helps our members in the area of character development,” Stacy McClendon, PNBGC Director, said. “We had the pleasure of several of our members standing up and expressing their thoughts regarding how the EarlyAct has impacted them during the last few weeks. The program also covers an open inauguration that allows our youth to be elected to their own Rotary type positions of president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer for the group. EarlyAct provides our youth opportunities to complete service projects for their community.”
During the induction ceremony Club members learned the Rotary four-way test, which revolves around the questions:
Is it true?
Is it fair?
Will it bring goodwill?
Is it beneficial?
As the youths first community project, members created eight large valentine poster boards that were brought to local hospitals in the area.
“The Early Act Program is special because it gives our young members the opportunity to express themselves in many ways that they can help and impact others by showing genuine responsibility to help others,” McClendon added. “We are very delighted to partner with the Rotary Club to give our youth yet another great source to help them reach their dreams.
Andrew Smith, EarlyAct President and PNBGC member shared, “The Early Act Program has help me to gain confidence in myself and be thankful for having a chance to help others around me each day.”
To learn more about Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcncg.com/petenance.
Destiny McClendon Named BGCNCG 2021 Youth of the Year
Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia recently named Destiny McClendon its 2021 Regional Youth of the Year. McClendon, who served as the 2020 YOY for BGCNCG, is no stranger to the Youth of the Year competition. Destiny is the first BGCNCG youth to win the title two years in a row. As a senior at Lake Oconee Academy, she’s looking forward to competing one last time at the state level.
“Youth of the Year is the highest honor a youth can receive,” Bob Mackey, CEO and President of BGCNCG, shared. “We value the dedication of our youth and are committed to investing in their futures. And we’re thrilled to see Destiny continue to chase her dreams!”
Mike Conrads, BGCNCG YOY Program committee member, shared his excitement for this year’s YOY.
“Destiny McClendon is a wonderful role model for our Club kids! She is focused on her goals and dedicated to constantly improving herself. She is generous with her time at the Club and shares her learning with her peers and our younger Club members,” he shared. “I am amazed at her work ethic and what she has accomplished, and continues to accomplish, from athletics to academics to the Club and for her community. We are so proud to have her represent the Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia as our 2021 Youth of the Year!”
For Destiny, Youth of the Year is another extension of the possibility that her Club has offered her.
“The Club is a sanctuary for some and an opportunity for others,” she shared. “Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club has given me the chance to rekindle old friendships and reinforce important values, that I use every day. The Club has shown me that the journey is more rewarding than the destination and that the differences I make can inspire one of our young members to change the world!”
Destiny will spend the next month preparing for the Georgia Youth of the Year competition where Youth of the Year candidates throughout Georgia will compete for the state title and continue on to the national competition. This year’s competition will be held virtually March 15.
Her coach, Pete Caulk, is looking forward to preparing for state competition.
“Destiny is the most coachable and hardest working young adult that I've had the pleasure to work with,” he shared. “Her accomplishments speak volumes about her intelligence, drive and ethics. She will go far, and I look forward to reading about her successes in the future.”
The state competition is offering preparation opportunities for YOY competitors this year through virtual sessions. These sessions will be with various companies throughout the United States. They will cover virtual interviews, public speaking, and other career building elements. Each company will award a paid internship post each session.
To learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia, visit www.bgcncg.com.
BGCNCG Welcome Tiffany Jones as Resource Development Specialist
Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia welcomes Tiffany Jones to her new role as the organization’s Resource Development Specialist.
Jones joined the movement in August of 2020 as Madison-Morgan County Boys & Girls Club’s Membership Clerk and quickly demonstrated her passion for the youth of BGCNCG. With a drive for growth and opportunity within the movement, Jones is looking forward to her new role and assisting the organization in resource development opportunities.
“I’m looking forward to growing within this amazing organization and serving the youth of North Central Georgia,” Jones shared.
To learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia, visit www.bgcncg.com or call 770-267-8034.
Congratulations to our President & CEO Who Will Appear on Shark Tank Feb 5
Bob Mackey is the President & CEO for the Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia. Mackey will appear on Shark Tank on Feb 5 at 8 PM with his invention Yono Clip. He came up with the idea at the gym while working out. Mackey is always sharing with Club youth to “dream big and that any idea is worth pursuing.”
Mackey has been with the Boys & Girls Club movement for nearly 15 years and continues to lead the North Central Georgia organization to success.
“We strive to show our youth that they can achieve great things and be their best self,” he shared. “I hope for our youth seeing dreams become reality further empowers them to never give up on their own ambitions.”
Mackey’s invention Yono Clip is a compact, portable, and inexpensive device designed to keep your possessions (purse, bookbag, gym bag, diaper bag, toiletry bag, shower caddy, towel, jacket, or coat) close by, off the floor, and free from germs and dirt.
The Yono Clip maximizes a reversed suction-cup technology's power by incorporating a proprietary locking system within the unit's housing. The Yono Clip also features a carabiner clip on the side to attach your personal items.
Be sure to watch Bob Mackey and Michael Green, Inventors of the Yono Clip on the television show Shark Tank, Feb 5th at 8 p.m.
WCBGC builds Anti-Bullying Chat Bot
Facebook invited Walton County Boys & Girls Club to participate in their Engineer for the Week program. Twenty members from the Club participated to work on creating a chat bot for change messenger system.
“Engineer for the Week provides a pathway for learners to explore engineering and gain computer science skills,” Lynn E. Hill, WCBGC Director, shared. “We were so excited to be able to bring this opportunity to our youth this fall.”
Hill shared the youth decided their subject of choice would be Bullying prevention and Tobacco Use Awareness.
“Our Club members met for a total of 15 hours to construct two chat bots that will be able to address the issues they deemed important by the community,” Hill shared. “When a Facebook user engages the Bullying Prevention Bot, the user will receive helpful ways to prevent bullying from happening and how to respond to bullying. When a Facebook user engages the Tobacco Use Awareness Bot, the user will receive information on the dangers of tobacco use and how to say no to peer pressure.”
For Club member D’Aces King, this project was meaningful.
“It is really cool that we get to create an actual chat bot that can help someone if they are being bullied,” he shared. “Bullying can really hurt people’s feelings and I’m glad we’re helping to end bullying.”
To learn more about Walton County Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcncg.com/waltonclub.
PNBGC Names Youth of the Month for November
For Club members at Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club being named Youth of the Month is a high honor. Every month youth are recognized for modeling their leadership abilities.
For the month of November, PNBGC named Gabriel Allen for our Youth of the Month and MJ Peaks for our Junior Youth of the Month.
“Gabriel Allen is extremely humble. He comes into the club everyday eagerly ready to work,” Program Coordinator, Diedra Richbow, shared. “He is an absolute pleasure to work with and he doesn’t mind helping others. MJ Peaks comes in the Club every day with a smile on his face. He is always willing to brighten up anyone's day with a joke. MJ has been a Club member for a short period of time but does not mind helping staff or fellow Club members.
“I am so very proud of our youth of the month members as we are starting to really focus on developing their talents and abilities to help the be the best they can be in and out of the Club. Gabriel is truly a remarkable young man with excellent behavior manners and attitude,” Stacy McClendon, PNCBGC Director, shared. “I am beyond proud of his improvement particularly with his homework. There is nothing he cannot achieve if he continues to grow in the Club, at home and in school.”
Youth Development Professional, Destiny McClendon, shared that MJ is always offering a helping hand.
“MJ is always engaged in the programs that are being taught to the Club members, McClendon shared. “He continues to stay locked into growing as a person and a club member to be the best that he can while being a good student.”
To learn more about Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club visit, www.bgcncg.com/petenance or call 706-920-1400.
BGCNCG Receives Dell Computers through BGCA
Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia recently were awarded 16 Dell computers from Boys & Girls Clubs of America through BGCA’s national partnership with Dell Technologies. The computers are to help continue to foster opportunities for connection during these unprecedented times.
Because of BGCNCG’s ongoing initiative to help youth engage with technology in new ways, the organization was selected for this award from BGCA.
“BGCNCG focuses on a variety of programs that promote STEM education and technology into our youth’s lives. One of those programs is MyFuture which provides members with a safe, fun digital platform to showcase their work and earn recognition for their work,” Bob Mackey, CEO and President of BGCNCG, shared. “We understand how powerful and connective technology is for our youth and their futures. We’re thrilled to have received this recognition and new Dell laptops to continue these programs.”
To learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia, visit www.bgcncg.com.
Old Navy Selects NCBGC as This Way Ahead Recipient
Old Navy’s This Way Ahead Program recently selected Newton County Boys & Girls Club as a recipient of a $5,000 grant to help engage teens in preparation for applying and interviewing for jobs at Old Navy. Since receiving the grant, two teens have been hired by Old Navy from NCBGC and more are moving forward in the interview process.
"The Newton Boys & Girls Club is excited about this opportunity for our teens and the teens in the Newton County community,” Nakita Williams, NCBGC Club Director, shared. “Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia prides itself on professionalism and here at Newton we carry that same expectation for our youth. With these funds we will be able to provide clothing assistance for youth that need clothes for interviews. We also would like to assist members who may need transportation to and from interviews. Because some of these interviews may take place virtually, these funds will also support costs associated with virtual interviews. We’re so excited to see our teens engaged and focused on their interview skills for Old Navy.”
October is a key hiring month for Old Navy stores, Allison Clarke, Director of Account Strategy & Corporate Development at BGCA, shared. “Old Navy stores want to have their stores fully staffed by November.”
With these supportive funds and in partnership with Old Navy’s This Way program, Newton teens will be a part of that holiday staffing this year.
“Partnerships with our local community businesses open up new doors and opportunities for our teens,” Bob Mackey, CEO and President of BGCNCG, shared. “For many of our Newton teens this will be their first job. We’re excited for them and all the new skills they will learn within the working force.”
To learn more about Newton County Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcncg.com/newtoncounty.