CEO Letter
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Happy New Year! Happy New Year? I was really looking forward to a fresh start in 2025, but I’ve struggled writing this letter in the typical upbeat fashion given the many challenges that January presented us as an organization and as a community. Is anyone else’s head spinning?
As I try to find my bearings in this nonstop 24-hour news cycle society, I’m reminded why our work at Boys & Girls Clubs of Larimer County is so important. We exist to provide a safe space of belonging and support for our youth who, like many of us, may be struggling to find comfort and encouragement from the world around them. In the last year, Boys & Girls Clubs of America recognized BGCLC for excellence in safety, staff training, behavioral health and trauma-informed practice, and our workforce development programming. Our Clubs MATTER to over 2,000 youth who walk through our doors annually and our staff is among the best of the best in ensuring that we never lose sight of our mission even in the most challenging moments.
In celebration of our mission, I hope you will join us for our countywide Youth of the Year Event on Sunday, February 23 on the CSU Campus to cheer on the amazing young leaders from each of our Clubs across the Fort Collins, Loveland, Estes Park and Wellington communities. You’ll hear first-hand how our staff and programs are quite literally changing lives and empowering young people to learn, grow, and thrive as productive, caring, responsible citizens. Your support of BGCLC is more important than ever as we continue our work in this ever-evolving funding landscape and we deeply appreciate your commitment to our kids.
With Gratitude & Hope, |
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Boys & Girls Clubs of Larimer County Hosts Regional Trauma-Informed Intensive Training
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Boys and Girls Clubs of Larimer County (BGCLC) has been selected as a Trauma-Informed Intensive Resource Training Hub. This prestigious recognition was awarded by Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) through a highly competitive application process. As part of this recognition, BGCLC hosted a TI Intensive Training for staff from Clubs across the region which occurred on December 4 – 6 at our Loveland-Pulliam Club location. 50 staff members from Clubs across the region joined BGCLC to broaden their trauma-informed knowledge.
The 3-day training was designed to enhance participants’ understanding of the impact of trauma and help them develop tools to create supportive environments that prioritize the seven elements of trauma-informed Clubs: safety, trust, empowerment, awareness, equity, connection, and collaboration.
The training was led by trauma-informed staff from different areas of BGCLC including the award-winning Behavioral Health Team and Club Directors. Participants had the opportunity to network and share expertise with other participating Clubs. Additionally, visiting Clubs received advice, support, and resources for their organizations.
Christine Cunningham, BGCLC’s Director of Behavioral Health and Licensed Clinical Social Worker, says her biggest hope is that participants gained a deeper understanding of trauma-informed practice, and how they can implement it at their Clubs.
“The process starts with the board and should circle to all staff. It’s an organization-wide process, not one person’s responsibility. And the outcome is a better Club experience for all youth,” Cunningham said. |
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Save the Date: Youth of the Year County-Wide Event!
Sunday, Feb. 23
1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Lory Student Center, 1101 Center Ave Mall, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA
Youth of the Year is one of our most impactful programs, equipping youth with 21st-century leadership skills and empowering them to strengthen and use their voice in the community. Youth of the Year winners demonstrate service to Club, service to community and family, academic success, strong moral character, goal-setting skills, communication skills, and public speaking ability. These high achievers personify the values and character of their hometown Club.
Join us for lunch, youth speeches, and stories of impact! To reserve a seat, email Caitlin Carter, Development Manager, at ccarter@bgclarimer.org.
BGCLC Joins The Eagles for a Night on the Ice!
Every year, the Colorado Eagles host a night supporting Boys & Girls Clubs of Larimer and Weld Counties. On Jan. 14, BGCLC members from across the county joined for a fun night on the ice!
This year, one of our Club members hit the buzzer to start the game! Another member had a very special opportunity to ride the Zamboni. Towards the end of the game, members hit the ice to participate in the Chuck-a-Puck game. SlapShot even visited our section to sign tickets and merch!
Thank you to our partners, the Colorado Eagles and JT Plumbing, for providing new memories and experiences for our Club members.
News & Announcements
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BGCLC Holds Third Annual County-Wide
E-Sports Tournament
Our kids and teens had so much fun battling it out at this year’s E-Sports Tournament! Youth showed great sportsmanship while competing in Super Smash Bros Ultimate and Mario Kart.
The Colorado State University E-Sports team joined us to announce matches and coach members. Winners received trophies to take back to their Clubs and gift cards to Games Ahoy, a local video game chain. Club Directors also handed out medals for good sportsmanship.
A special thank you to Games Ahoy for their continued sponsorship and support! |
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BGCLC Collects 700 Club Gifts
Before winter break, all of our Clubs held their Holiday Family Nights. These evenings included crafts, snacks, and Club gifts for each Club member to open or take home.
Thanks to the generosity of our community, we collected 700 Club Gifts this holiday season!
We’re so grateful for all the individuals and businesses who helped us spread cheer over the holidays! |
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Support BGCLC at Ross Dress For Less Stores!
To show their continued support in preparing today’s youth for a brighter tomorrow, Ross Stores, Inc. is partnering with Boys & Girls Clubs of America for the 11th annual three-week in-Store “Help Local Kids Thrive” fundraiser.
Beginning February 8 through March 2, Customers in Fort Collins and Loveland can donate to Boys & Girls Clubs of Larimer County during checkout at their local Ross store.
Customers’ donations will go toward the Club’s Power Hour program, providing homework help and academic resources to Club youth in Larimer County and across the country. |
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