February Newsletter
CEO Corner
My first three weeks at Boys & Girls Clubs of Larimer County have been full of learning. Learning names and faces. Learning the language and acronyms; PSC – Program Support Center, ADA – Average Daily Attendance, YDS – Youth Development Specialist. Learning a Google-based platform – I’m a Microsoft Office girl! It has been a whirlwind of information and ideas, and I could not be more excited to be a part of this incredible team. As I visited the Fort Collins, Wellington, and Loveland-Pulliam Clubs and met with our Directors, their passion, dedication, and pride in their work instantly shone through. They love our kids, and our kids love coming to Club because of their commitment to our mission.
The highlight of this first month has, without a doubt, been our Youth of the Year Competition. Eighteen of our Club members bravely stood in front of an audience of parents, community members, and their peers and shared their stories of what being a part of BGCLC meant to them. Their ages ranged from 9 to 18 years old, and every speech was carefully planned and deeply personal. While each story was unique, there was one theme that resonated throughout the day. Our Clubs are a safe space for our kids where each child who walks through our doors feels accepted, encouraged, and supported every single day. For some, it may be the only place where this is possible.
Our Senior Youth of the Year, Jose G., spoke eloquently about hard work and perseverance. He reminded me that many times the most important accomplishments in our lives are the ones that are not easily achieved. They take time, grit, and a cheering section telling you that big dreams are within reach. Boys & Girls Clubs of Larimer County has big dreams, including the launch of a comprehensive 0-18 child care campus at our Loveland-Pulliam location that will bring nonprofit and community partners together to better serve local families. I invite all of you to join our cheering section and support the work of BGCLC with your time, talent, and treasure. Because of you – Great Futures Start Here.
2023 Youth of the Year Winner Announced!
Boys & Girls Clubs of Larimer County (BGCLC), in partnership with Colorado State University (CSU) and Front Range Community College (FRCC), hosted our annual county-wide Youth of the Year Competition on Saturday, February 18th. The Youth of the Year program recognizes Club members who, with the help of their Club, have met personal challenges head-on and have given back to their Club and community. Youth of the Year winners have demonstrated service to Club, community, and family, academic success, strong moral character, life goals, and poise and public speaking ability.
Special thanks to our competition judges and winners (from left to right): Ryan Caldwell, Assistant Branch Manager, Bank of Colorado; Dr. Dwayne Schmitz, Chief Institutional Officer, Poudre School District; Dr. Blanche Hughes, Vice President of Student Affairs at CSU; Samantha M. C., Junior Youth of the Year winner; Jose G., Senior Youth of the Year winner; Dr. Aparna Palmer, Vice President, Front Range Community College; Larimer County Commissioner Jody Shadduck-McNally; Fred Garcia, City of Loveland Human Services Commission Member; Allison Hines, CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Larimer County
Advocate for Youth Award
Summer at the Club
Summer is right around the corner! Summer at the Club is action-packed and filled with activities to stoke creativity, build character, and inspire future leaders. Registration for our summer programs opens February 28th to current Club families on our website!