2023 BGCMW Recap

2023 RECAP RECAP

MARLBOROUGH

HUDSON

FRAMINGHAM

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HALL OF FAME REFLECTING ON THE 2023 HALL OF FAME On May 20, 2023, the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest held a remarkable event for 165 guests, the Hall of Fame Induction Breakfast, at the Courtyard by Marriott in Marlborough. The occasion served as a tribute to five exceptional individuals who have demonstrated unwavering dedication to the Clubs, whether through personal, professional, or financial support, benefiting the entire MetroWest community. With a rich 79-year history deeply rooted in Marlborough and its surrounding areas, it is of utmost importance to acknowledge and celebrate the remarkable volunteers and supporters who have championed the cause of BGCMW. This year’s Hall of Fame inductees included Delma Josephson, Founder of Marlborough Girls Club; John Petrin, BGCMW Board of Director; Brent DeBraga, Alumni and former Full-Time BGCMW Program Staff and Julie Horrigan, Alumni and former Vice President of Resource Development. The Ron Young Memorial Award was awarded to Barbara Masterson, Happy Hours Preschool Director for the last 35 years.

Delma Josephson

John Petrin

Julie Horrigan

Brent DeBraga

Barbara Masterson

CONGRATS TO ALL INDUCTEES!

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MAN CAVE PROGRAM GIVES BACK

YOY 2022 CANDIDATE RECEIVES $1K SCHOLARSHIP Each year, one exceptional Club member is selected to be our Youth of the Year, serving as an ambassador for the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest youth as well as a voice for all our young people. Over the decades, these individuals have exemplified the Boys & Girls Club mission and are proof to the impact Clubs make in transforming and saving kids’ lives.

The 2022-2023 academic year concluded with a successful food drive by the young men's program, Man Cave, at Marlborough Clubhouse. The food donations were made to United Way Community Cupboard, for those in need within the community.

As part of Man Cave's objectives, members are tasked with developing a community project to work on throughout the year. Recognizing the dire need, the young men took the initiative to organize and execute this food drive.

Formerly known as the Passport to Manhood program, Man Cave serves as a platform to encourage boys aged 8 to 14 to mature into responsible young men. The program is an intentional effort to engage boys in meaningful discussions and activities that reinforce positive behavior, leadership, and character development.

We are immensely proud of the dedication and hard work of our members in making this project a success!

Our 2022 Youth of the Year, Victoria Mier, received a $1,000 scholarship from our Clubs for her exemplary work and for being the ideal Club member and role model. She is an alumni of the Hudson Clubhouse.

Victoria is currently attending Curry College and is expected to graduate in 2026. She is still connected to the Club and works the front desk when she is home during college breaks.

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WALKER DEVELOPMENT AND BGCMW PARTNER TO BUILD GREAT FUTURES TOGETHER

CELEBRATING THE 4TH SEASON OF AN INCREDIBLE PARTNERSHIP WITH AVIDIA

This year Walker Development & Construction Management took steps to partner with the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest.

Once again, Avidia Bank has stepped up to the plate. For every defensive interception and defensive recovery made by New England Patriot, Adrian Phillips, and his team throughout the entire season, Avidia Bank will generously donate $1,000 to the Boys & Girls Club of MetroWest. This season, they raised $30K!

Walker Development & Construction Management has been a strong partner of the Club’s since 2020, when they completed the Marlborough Clubhouse’s member area renovations. The partnership first blossomed when a few of the Walker Development & Construction Management employees who were completing the renovation shared that they were Club alumni and the impact that the Club had on them as children.

This year, they upgraded the windows of our Marlborough Clubhouse, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. The transformation is truly beautiful!

Walker Development & Construction Management has committed to Building Great Futures here in the MetroWest through hands-on volunteer hours, and by advocating for the mission while in the community.

Funding invested from Walker Development & Construction Management will directly impact the Club’s sports and fitness programming for youth in the MetroWest.

To learn more, visit www.walker-dev.com

Adrian Phillips also visited the Marlborough Club surprising Club kids and spending quality time with our members. He conducted a conditioning clinic and engaged in a Q&A session, creating a memorable and interactive experience.

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CELEBRATING THE 2023 YOUTH OF THE YEAR RECIPIENT, NIHJAE PERKINS! We are thrilled to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Nihjae Perkins for being named the 2023 Youth of the Year recipient!

This prestigious honor recognizes Nihjae's outstanding leadership qualities, resilience, and dedication to making a positive impact on the world around him.

Youth of the Year is our signature program aimed at nurturing the next generation of leaders who are fully equipped to thrive in today's diverse, global, and interconnected world economy. In the 21st century, essential skills such as effective communication, goal-setting, and teamwork are paramount for young individuals as they prepare to tackle the challenges of adolescence and adulthood.

Congratulations to Nora Steiner from the Framingham Clubhouse and Lucas Pessoni from the Hudson Clubhouse on their remarkable nominations as Youth of the Year!

Their exceptional leadership, dedication, and positive impact in their communities are truly commendable.

Since its grassroots inception in 1947, Youth of the Year has evolved into a comprehensive leadership development program that empowers young people to cultivate their potential and become catalysts for change. Through mentorship, skill-building workshops, and community involvement, participants like Nihjae have the opportunity to develop essential life skills, amplify their voices, and pursue their dreams.

Congratulations, Nihjae, on this well-deserved recognition! You are an exceptional leader, and we cannot wait to see the incredible achievements you will accomplish in the future.

Your determination and commitment to making a difference are an inspiration to us all!

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Congrats to all the 2023 Graduates!

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A SUMMER OF SUCCESS The Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest is proud to announce the resounding success of our summer program. Summer 2023 was a time of boundless joy, exploration, and growth for our members across all Clubhouses.

The Marlborough Clubhouse stood with an impressive peak of 140 members gathered at once in one week. This summer was all about diving into wild encounters and soaring creativity. Special guests, including Animal Craze and Animal Adventures, have brought the wild world to the Clubhouse offering upclose encounters with incredible creatures!

The Hudson Clubhouse witnessed a steady stream of 106 members per week. Each day was a fresh adventure, as children immersed themselves in learning and fun camp activities. Members embarked on exciting field trip adventures like the Discovery Museum. From interactive exhibits to handson exploration, our young learners had the opportunity to dive into a world of discovery and curiosity!

In Framingham, the Club impressively had 135 members at once in one week. A cherished tradition across our organization where members are able to take a boat to Georges Island. This favorite field trip never fails to ignite joy and wonder among our members.

This experience was a perfect blend of adventure and exploration. Framingham's voyage to Georges Island has undoubtedly become an enduring highlight of the summer program!

What truly defined the summer program was the spirit of exploration, the thrill of play, and the unforgettable special guests who graced

our Clubhouses. Whether it was the excitement of field trips that opened new horizons, the laughter that echoed through camp games, or the knowledge shared by our special visitors, each moment was a brushstroke on a canvas of cherished memories!

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ELEVATING SUMMER ADVENTURES: TWO TRANSFORMATIVE PARTNERSHIPS This summer, the BGCMW summer camp program was infused with wonder and growth through two exceptional partnerships that ignited curiosity, sparked imagination, and left indelible imprints on the hearts and minds of our young participants.

OARS WATER WISE PROGRAM CULTIVATING ECO-CONSCIOUS MINDS shops with hands-on activities, vibrant group discussions, and personal encounters with the world of plants and wildlife, our summer camp participants were engaged in an enlightening experience. Because of this partnership, our members were able to develop a profound understanding of their connection to the environment. As they explored they unlocked the secrets of ecosystems and cultivated a deep appreciation for the intricate web of life that resides within them. Beyond knowledge, these workshops ignited a fire of responsibility within each child, fostering a sense of guardianship for the natural world. The Oars Water Wise program did more than educate; it nurtured a generation of environmental stewards who are equipped to protect and preserve our planet's precious resources. (continued)

Our collaboration with the Oars Water Wise program has been a beacon of environmental education that has illuminated our Clubhouses with the brilliance of ecological discovery every year. Through immersive work-

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LOVE LANE & CITY TO SADDLE A JOURNEY ON HORSEBACK

The Framingham Clubhouse members embarked on an amazing opportunity that will forever remain etched in their hearts, thanks to the extraordinary partnership between Love Lane and City to Saddle. For this summer, these young adventurers stepped into the "farm-life", engaging in a horseback riding journey that included three hours in the saddle each day. This collaboration was a transformative voyage into self-discovery, trust-building, and an unbreakable bond between humans and horses.

Through the guidance of Love Lane and City to Saddle, these campers not only learned to ride but also to communicate, empathize, and form connections beyond words.

In an ever-evolving world, the importance of collaboration cannot be overstated. These two partnerships are a testament to the magic that happens when organizations come together with a shared vision. Their efforts go far beyond the summer days. As we bid farewell to the summer, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Oars Water Wise program, Love Lane, City to Saddle, and all partners who have journeyed alongside us.

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BUILDING CONFIDENCE AND HEALTHY HABITS AT OUR CLUBS In our sports and fitness areas across all three clubs, we've been dedicating our efforts to the exciting and transformative Triple Play program.

This program is designed to empower our youth by focusing on building confidence, improving abilities, and fostering motivation through a range of new physical education activities.

At the heart of the Triple Play program is the mission to instill healthy habits, both physically and mentally, among our young members. Through engaging activities, we aim to teach them how to create positive changes in their everyday lives, particularly when it comes to leading a healthy lifestyle.

The activities within this program are not only fun but also deeply meaningful. They highlight crucial life skills such as teamwork, perseverance, effective decision-making, and the regulation of both emotions and physical well-being. By participating in these activities, our youth are gaining valuable tools and knowledge to thrive in all aspects of their lives.

This year we had 45 kids participate grades 3-4 throughout all three Clubs!

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EMPOWERING YOUTH THROUGH DOVE’S MY HAIR, MY CROWN PROGRAM

In an effort to boost self-confidence and foster inclusivity, the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest provided an extraordinary opportunity for female members. Through the Dove My Hair, My CROWN program, children aged 11 to 14 were empowered to embrace their unique hair types, from coils to curls, waves, and protective styles. This innovative initiative also sought to promote allyship and create a world that respects and celebrates natural hair.

The program was specifically designed to address a significant source of appearance-related pressure that young individuals often face: their hair and the associated culture. One of the highlights of this initiative was the guest appearance of Mona Dixon, a remarkable advocate for youth empowerment. Not only has she been an integral part of the My Hair, My CROWN program, but she has also achieved outstanding recognition.

Mona Dixon's journey is an inspiration for young individuals everywhere. She was honored as the 64th National Youth of the Year by the Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA), representing the voices and aspirations of over 4 million young

people around the globe. At the age of 17, she had the extraordinary privilege of meeting President Barack Obama in the Oval Office.

Additionally, her exceptional contributions led to her being named one of the 28 Most Influential African-American Women in America by Essence Magazine when she was just 18 years old.

This program not only provided valuable insights and inspiration to the young members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest but also reinforced the importance of embracing one's unique identity and the power of allyship in creating an inclusive world for all. We look forward to more initiatives like this that empower our youth and celebrate their individuality.

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GENEROUS DONATIONS FROM GOOD SPORTS AND GEICO ENRICH OUR FRAMINGHAM CLUBHOUSE Good Sports and GEICO have jointly contributed an impressive assortment of sports equipment valued at an astounding $15,000 to our Framingham Clubhouse. This significant donation encompasses a wide range of sporting essentials, benefiting our members in countless ways.

The donated equipment spans a diverse array of sports and activities, ensuring our members have access to a wealth of recreational opportunities. This includes brand-new flag football gear, soccer equipment, a wide array of general recreational supplies, engaging playground equipment, tennis, basketball, and volleyball essentials, as well as top-quality fitness gear and athletic apparel.

This remarkable gift from Good Sports and GEICO not only enriches the lives of our members by providing them with the tools to engage in physical activity and team sports but also emphasizes the importance of fostering a healthy and active lifestyle. We are deeply grateful for this incredible gesture of support, and we look forward to seeing our members benefit from these valuable resources for years to come.

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2023 BGCMW ANNUAL GALA & AUCTION For an impressive 17 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest have proudly hosted our Annual Gala & Auction, and this year was no exception. On Thursday, October 19th, at The Verve Hotel in Natick, with the generous support of our presenting sponsor, TJX Companies, Inc., we gathered to make a difference for our community's youth. The event featured a vibrant cocktail hour, an exclusive dinner for 197 guests in attendance, and an exciting afterparty.

Our Annual Gala & Auction provides crucial support for the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest's mission, offering a safe space for youth to excel academically, engage with positive role models, and develop into confident leaders. Because of supporters like you, we are able to address a significant challenge. For many of the children we serve, reliable transportation can be the difference between accessing these life-changing programs or missing out. It's a barrier that stands between their potential and the opportunities we offer contributing to our transportation fund, you play a direct role in breaking down these barriers and creating equal access for every child in our

community. Your support ensures that no child is left behind and that they can excel academically, engage with positive role models, and grow into confident leaders just like their peers. The event was a spectacular affair featuring a cocktail hour, a delectable dinner, an enticing jewelry pull raffle with a stunning diamond necklace provided by Wright Jewelry & Design, a captivating silent auction, and elegant decor sponsored by YG Companies & K&E Design. The event's AV, photography, videography, and entertainment were expertly handled by South Shore Sound & Lighting.

This year, we are honored to present the Michael C. Sullivan Award to John and Pam Narahara, the Rail Trail Flatbread Co. with the 2023 Community Partner for Youth Award and the Alumni Impact Award goes to an incredibly deserving alumni of the Framingham Clubhouse, Clarabelle Valcin.

Our silent auction was a true highlight, boasting over 100 items ranging from luxury getaways to unforgettable experiences and coveted sports memorabilia. Even if you couldn't join us in person, you could still be part of the excitement, as supporters had the opportunity to register and participate virtually, bidding on these incredible auction items.

This year's Annual Gala & Auction was an outstanding success thanks to the unwavering support of our community and sponsors. It reaffirms our commitment to providing youth with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. We are deeply grateful to everyone who played a part in making this event a resounding achievement!

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A NIGHT TO REMEMBER AT POLAR PARK TOWN TAKEOVER NIGHT

We were filled with immense gratitude and a deep sense of honor as we reflect on our experience as the featured non-profit at Polar Park's Town Takeover Night.

The City of Marlborough, Mayor Arthur Vigeant, and Mayor-Elect Christian Dumais donated tickets to youth members and their families to attend the game.

Club kids Danica and Owen were invited on the field with the Club’s Director of Operations, Barbara Tolland, and Vice President, Laura Terzigni.

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EXPRESSING GRATITUDE FOR OUR VALUED CORPORATE VOLUNTEERS!

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BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF METROWEST

BY THE NUMBERS

of Club youth take responsibility for their decisions and try to consider the impact on others before making them.

of youth say that they feel safe at the Clubs compared to other places.

of high schoolers are post-secondary ready.

of youth feel that they have the skills needed to be successful in a job.

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CORE PROGRAMMING AT OUR CLUBS The SMART Girls program had over 70 participants throughout our clubs this year. Through a partnership with BGCA and the Dove Self Esteem Project, 30 girls combined from all of our clubs explored self-esteem and female identity, goal setting, club community, practicing healthy communication skills, learning to trust and tell, celebrating uniqueness, as well as coping with anger.

Triple Play kept our kids moving at all of our clubs. Over 45 participants, grades 3rd-5th across 3 clubs, focused on building confidence and motivation. The program introduces exciting new physical education activities. Each activity is designed not only to instill healthy habits but also to promote positive changes in the physical and mental well-being of our youth.

50 teens engaged in workforce readiness programs across the three clubs, participating in Career Launch—a career exploration program for middle and high school members. The program aims to foster early awareness of diverse professional paths, enabling participants to identify their strengths, passions, and interests and connect them to potential careers. A field trip to Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School provided insight into various educational paths and opportunities offered by vocational/technical schools.

BGCMW ran a successful Teen Health Workshop Series and inter-club nights. Facilitated presentations on gang violence, mental health and how to ask for help, vaping, teen self-esteem, effects of marijuana, bullying and gang violence were collaborations through The Massachusetts Partnership for Youth.

AN UNFORGETTABLE SURPRISE TO END THE YEAR!

Patriots Safety Adrian Phillips, accompanied by his wife and baby boy, brought warmth to our Marlborough Club this holiday season.

The sheer joy on the faces of our kids was heartening as they received personalized stockings and incredible gifts from these generous guests. The expressions of delight and gratitude from the children made this surprise exceptionally special. What a great way to end the year! A heartfelt thank you to Adrian Phillips for creating an unforgettable day! We are forever grateful!

To our members and their families, staff, volunteers, donors and all supporters,

THANK YOU for an amazing year!

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