Boys & Girls Clubs of Harford County distributed approximately 2,000 toys during the holiday season to our Club kids and in-need families. 

Thanks largely to the generosity and success of the Today Show's annual toy drive, we received toys for every age from major brands like Hasboro, Hess, vTech, TOMMY Toys, and UPPA Baby. This partnership has touched the lives of all of our Club kids over many years, and we are so grateful for the opportunity to give our kids a happy holiday.
 

In 2014, TODAY Toy Drive raised approximately $30 million worth of in-kind donations, putting smiles on the faces of more than 3 million children through 172 family non-profits in all 50 states and on military bases abroad. In the 21 years since its launch, the TODAY Toy Drive has received a total of an estimated $393 million in donations from loyal and generous TODAY viewers. 
 

A recent national report on "The Mentoring Effect" reported that youth who have had a mentor are 55% more likely to go to college, 81% more likely to be involved in extracurricular activities, and 78% more likely to volunteer in their communities. 

Each year since its 2002 launch, National Mentoring Month has enjoyed the strong support of the U.S. President and members of Congress. Additional prominent individuals who have participated in the campaign include: the late Maya Angelou, former President Bill Clinton, Clint Eastwood, Senator John McCain, Quincy Jones, General Colin L. Powell, Cal Ripken, Jr., Bill Russell and Usher. 

As you might have guessed, being an international celebrity is not a prerequisite to becoming a wonderful mentor. Join us on Wednesday, January 14th at the Havre de Grace Club to learn more about becoming a mentor or to engage in great activities with your current mentee. Find out about all of Harford County's special mentoring programs this month HERE. Call Kim at 410-638-3389 to RSVP.

Did you receive a gift card this holiday season that you don't expect to use? Don't let it go to waste. Donate your unused or unwanted gift cards to Boys & Girls Clubs of Harford County. "The gift cards make supporting the Club easy," says Tim Wills, Chief Kid Officer (and Executive Director). "We use the cards as incentives for our teens for making honor roll. We purchase supplies like kitchen utensils and makeup samples for our Smart Girls and Healthy Habits programs. Or, we'll buy a coat or shoes for a child in need."

Like most charitable donations, giving a gift card to Boys & Girls Clubs is tax-deductible but always be sure to consult your tax advisor for your particular situation.
 

Donated gift cards can be dropped off at any Club location.