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May

Newsletter

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On May 5th, we named Orlando Rider our 2022 George Krupanski, Jr. Delaware Youth of the Year. During that Finale event, we heard four incredible speeches from Orlando and his fellow Finalists and had the opportunity to learn more about each of them. Year after year, YOY Finalists share their incredible life stories and this year’s group held true to form, demonstrating great poise and inspiration for all of us who support the work of Club professionals.

 

Spring brings with it the rebirth of nature. Flowers emerge, plants regenerate, and the smell of freshly cut grass reminds us that we have risen from the dormancy of winter. I think that metaphor is apropos this year as we all experience life in a Covid-free (mostly) environment. We all have an opportunity to seize the day for growth and enjoyment of life’s gifts. Our team across the state encourages that growth and enjoyment for all of our members each day with meaningful programs and important relationships that provide great opportunity for all.


Spring also means time for our annual budget process. This year’s budget will pose a challenge for us. Most Covid support has ended, and we return to a more normal operating environment. While we enter this phase from a position of strength, we do see headwinds in our business model. Sourcing qualified staff remains difficult, which negatively impacts the number of members in our Clubs and inflation will certainly increase operating costs. Our team will diligently address these impediments to develop a plan that will ensure great programming for our kids in a positive environment.

John Wellons,

President & CEO

May Highlight: Youth of the Year

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Orlando Rider has been named the 2022 George Krupanski Jr. Youth of the Year! Orlando also received the Best Essay award for the essay portion of his application. With over 180 volunteer hours this past year and his dedication to his education, Orlando has proven that he has what it takes to represent Delaware at the regional competition.

Currently a senior at Freire Charter School, Orlando will attend Delaware State University this fall to pursue a degree in criminal justice. Orlando credits his grandmother, time as a club kid and experience through the Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware employment program for making him who he is today. “The Club holds a special place in my heart and I know I would not be the same person without it in my life” he says. Congratulations Orlando!

Program Feature: Chemours Chem Camp

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This Spring Break, students at our Brandywine Springs School Site participated in Chemours Chem Camp. During the week long program, students learned about the scientific method and explored careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math).

At the end of camp, students created projects that showcased their findings and presented them to parents and friends!

Club Activity: First LEGO League Team

Our Linden Hill Hydraulic Unicows team recently competed in the First LEGO League competition at Lums Pond State Park. The team presented on hydraulic suspension systems in trucks and demonstrated their robot programming skills. Together, they won the Masterful Programming Award, an Excellent Project Award and placed 3rd in the robot competition!

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