Andrew Whitworth is my favorite football player.
I can’t think of a better description of how our staff works.
When Roberto* began attending the Teen Center, staff member Oscar noticed that he kept to himself. As Oscar does with all teens, he asked Roberto about school, his day, and his hobbies, but Roberto was reluctant to give more than one word answers to each question.
Oscar continued to spend time and talk with Roberto, showing him that he cared. With time, Roberto let his walls down; he shared about his difficult childhood that led to many of his behavioral issues. He was afraid to let others in because he had been let down so many times before.
But every day, Oscar was there. He encouraged Roberto to join Keystone and Brent’s Club. It was not easy for him, because he had never participated in extracurricular activities, but he agreed to it. He has flourished in Brent’s Club, Keystone, and the Club in general. He has not missed one meeting or event. He was even awarded Teen Center youth of the month recently. Lots of things are better now, he is getting in less trouble, his grades are up, and best of all, is open and happy.
Oscar made the investment and he led with his heart. It paid off.
Thank you,
Erin Antrim
CEO Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme
*all members names are changed for their privacy
