BGC Brief - Summer 2023

For Tehachapi area student Emilee, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County’s new Tehachapi Teen Center is a great place to get homework done and access afterschool programs with her friends. Emilee was excited when the Club first opened a pilot program on Jacobson Middle School Campus where she attended and then later moved to a walk-able location separate from the school campus through a partnership with the Tehachapi Unified School District.

Emilee quickly got involved in drama, dance lessons, cooking, fine art and gardening programs. The activities help round out her busy schedule outside of

the Club which includes choir and volleyball. Emilee’s favorite school subject is English Language Arts and she feels she’s more productive with her homework because the Club supports her academics as well.

“The Club activities are fun and it takes my mind of off other things,” Emilee shared when asked what she thinks of the Club and why other kids should attend. Emilee plans to attend college and become a therapist so that she can help other people. At a young age, she already has a personal motto that she lives by, “Don’t forget about anyone on your journey, including yourself.”

Emilee lives in Tehachapi with her mom, stepdad, two brothers (she’s a middle child,) and her cat – Kitty.

In April 2022, through a collaboration with the Tehachapi School District, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County opened the doors to a new Club serving 62 students in the 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. The afterschool enrichment program is focused on skill building, social-bonding and community impact. Through cooking classes, arts & crafts, STEM activities, gardening, and homework assistance, these young people are learning to create their own community that promotes learning, character building, positive affiliation, empowerment, and supportive friendships.

Emilee posing outside of the Tehachapi Club.

Emilee enjoys hanging out with her friend during program.

Emilee enjoys hanging out with her friend during program.