As is tradition, I am thrilled to share a reflection from one of your Club Staff colleagues as the first ClubX Blog post of the new year. This year, Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield CEO Brandy Harris gives a heaping dose of inspiration and reminds us of our “why.”
As we step boldly into 2025, I find myself reflecting on a truth that feels more present than ever—this Movement changes lives. The past year, 2024, has been the hardest of my life, and yet, through every challenge, I’ve seen hope and resilience shining brighter than ever across our Clubs and communities.
Here’s some of what I’ve witnessed:
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Illinois won a new 15-passenger van, making it safer and easier to transport more kids to opportunities that change lives.
- Boys & Girls Club of Greater Holland empowered their girls’ group through a community service project, serving hot cocoa while learning about leadership, character, and self-esteem.
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue provided 6,000 fully stocked backpacks to community members and Club families, ensuring kids had what they needed to succeed.
- Boys & Girls Club of Jefferson City hosted new and engaging family events that brought their community closer together.
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Parkersburg celebrated 60 years of making the world a better place for kids.
- Boys & Girls Club of Oshkosh made tennis accessible to all with a camp designed to provide equitable opportunities.
- Boys & Girls Clubs of the Suncoast and Tampa Bay joined forces to form one of the nation’s largest Boys & Girls Clubs so they could have a more meaningful impact on kids in Florida.
- Union League Boys & Girls Clubs hosted an extraordinary Science Fair to encourage brilliant young minds to showcase their innovative projects.
- Boys & Girls Club of Dayton captured first-day-at-Club photos with members, creating lasting memories and making every kid feel special.
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County hosted their fundraiser, “A Most Unusual Evening: Wild Wild West,” raising vital funds to serve the kids who need us most.
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City partnered with Dick’s Sporting Goods to bring incredible new sports equipment to their Clubs, giving kids the chance to learn and play.
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield worked hard to build intentionality around The Arts and put on a musical, formed a choir that sang across the city, and hosted a fashion show.
These moments remind me that no matter how tough things get, the work we do together brings so much good into the world.
From Reactive to Proactive
As a Movement, we’ve spent years in reactive mode—navigating pandemic-related challenges, responding to crises, and meeting needs as they arose. But 2025 represents something new: an intentional shift to proactive mode.
We’re learning to plan with purpose, create sustainable systems, and move toward a future where every decision is grounded in what’s best for the kids we serve. This shift will take time and effort, but it’s happening because of leaders like you. Together, we’re building a more resilient, impactful future for our Clubs and communities.
Ash’s Story: The Power of What We Do
When people ask me what we do at Boys & Girls Clubs, the answer is simple: We provide spaces, people, and opportunities to help kids and teens realize their potential.
Teens like Ash. 💙
Earlier this month, Ash was named our Youth of the Month. As part of the recognition, he shared his story, and I was reminded why places like the Club are so important.
Ash’s early life was marked by challenges that made him hesitant to open up to new people. That changed last year when two close friends encouraged him to join the Boys & Girls Club. “I was hesitant at first, but I decided to try it. To say the very least, I’m extremely glad I did,” he shared.
The Club quickly became a safe haven where Ash could connect with caring, genuine people. “The Club has helped me by giving me the chance to connect with people who are truly good and care. And it’s also really fun—I always look forward to coming here after school.”
Now serving as a mentor in the Club’s YEO program, Ash is a leader to younger members. “I think it’s really important that youth have somewhere they can feel safe and have people to talk to, even if it’s just a simple conversation,” he said.
Grateful for the opportunities and relationships he’s built, Ash has also found meaningful employment at the Club and plans to stay involved in the future. “I am truly thankful for everything the Club has done for me. Many aspects of my life have improved because of it.”
Ash’s story reminds us of the transformative power of what we do every day. Kids like Ash are the reason we show up, and their success is our greatest reward.
The Power of Our Work
As we look ahead to 2025, I’m reminded of the new study commissioned by BGCA that underscores the value of our work. For every $1 invested in Boys & Girls Clubs, our communities see a return of $10.32.
This isn’t just a statistic—it’s a powerful reminder that what we do matters. Every program, every relationship, and every moment at the Club creates ripples of impact that extend far beyond our walls.
So, let’s carry the energy of new beginnings into our daily work. Let’s choose hope, passion, and action. And most of all, let’s remember the “why” behind every choice we make—the kids who walk through our doors, trusting us to show up for them every single day.
Here’s to the kids. Here’s to the Movement. Here’s to the masterpiece we’ll create together.
Happy New Year, my friends. Let’s make 2025 unforgettable.
What did you and your colleagues accomplish in 2024 that you are inspired by? How are you kicking off the new year? We want to hear! Comment below, on the BGCA Youth Development Facebook page, or email ClubXBlog@bgca.org.
About Brandy Harris
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