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Dear friends,
At the beginning of my second week of service at Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, I want to take a moment to thank you all for such a warm welcome! From emails, cards, and phone calls, to in-person visits and Club tours, I have savored every moment and am overcome with gratitude.
Last week, I shared with the Board my plan for a ‘listening tour’-- visiting each of our 40 Clubs within my first 60 days. It’s an ambitious goal, but an important one, as our Club members and staff are the lifeblood of our organization. Thus far, I’ve been able to visit 11 Clubs! My visits have focused on learning, observing and listening. On each visit, I’ve come away inspired by our talented and committed staff, joyful and engaged Club members, and heartwarming stories. Frankly, I’m pinching myself to have landed in an organization whose work creates so much goodness and inspiration in the world.
To wit, in just one week, I’ve met the coaches of our award-winning, national champion robotics team; admired world-class art created by Club members (that I will proudly display in my office); toured our exceptional music, sports and technology facilities supported by amazing corporate and community partners; and participated in our exceptional and engaging literacy and education programs. The common threads connecting our Clubs are the nourishing, human relationships between members and a staff, who are dedicated, driven and passionate to raise our youth by believing in, providing for, and pushing them to be better versions of themselves.
As a part of one visit, I read an essay by Rylan, one of our Youth of the Year winners, focusing on mental health awareness, a topic that many choose to stay away from, but is prioritized in our Clubs. In her essay, Rylan explores the importance of being aware of the signs and signals of those around her, and listening with more than just her ears, as was modeled in her Boys & Girls Club. Now a college freshman, Rylan aspires to a career in which she helps other youth find the self-love and empowerment she experienced in her Club. What a beautiful example of why we do what we do, and a great reminder that listening and observing can change the course of someone’s day, week or life.
Looking ahead, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida is focused on serving more youth while supporting and engaging our staff members to enable future generations to reach heights they never thought possible. We will prioritize leadership development, not only for our Club members, but our staff team as well. We will engage more community partners who have a heart for supporting our future leaders, finding dynamic ways to connect their passion with our youth, working together to break the cycle of poverty in our community.
I could not be more encouraged and grateful for the Club and staff members whom I have the privilege of serving each day, as well as the partners who serve alongside us. I look forward to sharing the journey with you!
Gratefully,
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