Fall 2023 Newsletter

GREAT NEWS FOR GREAT FUTURES

Celebrating 85 Years of Empowering Youth

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County’s 85th anniversary year has been a time for reflection, celebration, and gratitude. For eight and a half decades, the Club has been a second home for thousands of young people throughout Monmouth County, providing them with a safe and supportive environment, transformative programs, and a much-needed sense of belonging. Staying relevant for 85 years requires a unique combination of innovation AND consistency. Our Club families have counted on us to show up day in and day out, and they know our team is always willing to do whatever it takes to help our members prepare for a healthy future. Today, we stand proud, recognizing our rich history, our unique contributions to the communities we serve, and the remarkable impact we have made on countless lives.

Established in Asbury Park in 1938, the Boys & Girls Club has grown from its humble beginnings on Main Street to become an influential force throughout Monmouth County. Founded with the vision of creating a positive space where children could thrive, the Club has stayed true to its mission over the years while also adapting to the evolving needs of our young people. Under the guidance of dedicated leaders, the Club has flourished. We owe our success to the passion, expertise, and unwavering dedication of our board members, staff, volunteers, and community partners whose tireless efforts have allowed us to transform the lives of young people in Asbury Park, Red Bank, Neptune, and Long Branch, where we have thriving Club sites.

As we celebrate this milestone, we invite you to join us on October 13th at Wave Resort in Long Branch for our biggest fundraiser of the year, “A Most Unusual Evening.” This highly anticipated event will

not only commemorate our 85th anniversary but also serve as an opportunity to honor those who have played a significant role in our journey.

We will be paying tribute to the city of Asbury Park, the birthplace of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County. It was in this vibrant community that our organization took root, and we are forever grateful for the support and inspiration provided by the city’s residents and leaders.

We will also recognize Ollie Jones, a distinguished Club alum and the longest-serving board member in our Club’s history. Ollie’s personal journey embodies the transformative power of the Club experience, and his continued dedication to our organization has helped shape the lives of countless young people. Furthermore, we extend our gratitude to the city of Long Branch, which is home to our newest Club location. This community has embraced our mission and opened its arms to welcome us, ensuring that more young people have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.

Finally, we will express our appreciation to Monmouth Medical Center, a major funder of our organization and a pillar in the Long Branch community. Their steadfast commitment to improving the health and well-being of the community aligns perfectly with our own goals, and we are honored to have them as a partner.

To learn more about the impact that our Club is making on the community, our anniversary celebration, or how you can get involved, please visit our website at www.bgcmonmouth.org. Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of Monmouth County’s youth for generations to come!

ALUM SPOTLIGHT From Club Kid to Visionary

An Interview with Dr. Henry Jarecki

Of the innumerable success stories that have come out of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County over the years, there are those individuals who don’t just rise to greatness, but to heights that shape multiple fields. Dr. Henry Jarecki is an entrepreneur, psychiatrist, producer, academic, philanthropist, and founder of the Youth Empowerment Project (YEP) in the British Virgin Islands. He grew up right here in Asbury Park a proud member of the Asbury Park Boys Club–and his life is an inspiring testament to the potential that lies within every young person who walks through our doors.

Many successful individuals credit their upbringing and early experiences as critical factors in their achievements. How did the Asbury Park Boys Club shape your values and aspirations?

I had a lot of self-confidence and independence as a young person, traveling between Asbury Park, where my father was a physician in private practice, and New York City, where my mother lived. What the Boys Club provided me was a place to go and relax, be among other young people, and simply have fun. It gave me a break and taught me the importance of friendship and fun, as well as perhaps some good basketball skills!

Your philanthropic efforts span a wide range of important causes, from education and the arts to youth development and refugee advocacy. Could you share some insights into why the Boys & Girls Club continues to hold a special place in your heart?

I have been lucky in my life and feel that it’s important to help others when I can—something that I am pleased to see my children and grandchildren actively doing as well. I try to make the world a little better than it is, as well as help in ways that are meaningful to me, investing in people and organizations that I think will make a difference. I look for good leaders, people in charge who get things done and grow their programs and organizations. For all of these reasons, the Boys & Girls Club is special to me: I remember my time there as a young person; I want to help other children benefit, just as I did; and, in Doug Eagles, you have a wonderful leader.

In recent years, there has been an increased focus on the importance of mentorship and guidance for young people. How did mentors or role models play a part in your own journey, and how do you see the Boys & Girls Club and YEP providing such support to the current generation?

I have learned so much from others in my life and a few special people come to mind—leaders who took me under their wings and mentored me in my work, both in psychiatry and business. My mentors helped me in several respects: they showed me how things worked; they let me make my own way; and, importantly, when I was wrong, they told me the truth. It was hard to hear, but it kept me honest with myself and taught me the importance of always being open to learning and having an open mind. Organizations like YEP and the Boys & Girls Club help by connecting young people to adults who are caring enough to educate and guide them and, if they need to improve, tell them the truth!

In light of the mental health crisis facing our young people, how can organizations like the Boys & Girls Club support the mental health and social-emotional development of our members? We must all find meaning and purpose in our lives however we can. I can only share with you how I’ve been able to carry on— not so much by thinking that I’ve figured everything out, but more by realizing a simple truth: that one thing leads to another. In that spirit, I think that an organization like the Boys & Girls Club can help by providing a diverse and interesting range of opportunities that young people can access—from skills development to music to sports. And I would urge young people to try different things, try them all, with an open mind— and show up for events and programs without over-thinking. If I’ve learned one important thing in life, it’s that good things happen when you just show up.

Do you have any advice for young people looking to make a difference in their communities?

Yes, to young people looking to make a difference, I say the following: keep an open mind, be open to learning, take advantage of every opportunity. Work hard, but have some fun along the way too. Above all, be a critical thinker. Don’t blindly accept things as they are; always ask why. And spend time at the Boys & Girls Clubs!

BOARD SPOTLIGHT Cheryl Grant

We are excited to introduce to you Cheryl D. Grant, who joined our board of directors this spring after many years as a supporter and volunteer. Cheryl has a deep commitment to our community, especially our young people, and recently we asked her a few questions to help others get to know her.

How were you first introduced to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County? I was working in the fitness industry opening centers and training fitness instructors. One of the students shared with me that she had started volunteering at the Boys & Girls Club. It just so happened was looking for a place to volunteer. telephoned them and it all began there.

What motivated you to join the board of directors? After volunteering for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County for over 20 years, felt the board needed some diversity–it is important for boards to be diverse to achieve success. A variety of perspectives, skills, ages, genders, cultures, and ethnicities results in effective decision-making, guidance, and risk management. I have learned first-hand during my years of volunteer service that it is good for our kids to see people who look like them taking an interest in their well-being and success.

What most appeals to you about BGCM and its mission?

Empowering children and youth to reach their full potential. have been planning and implementing

STAFF HIGHLIGHT

Meet our Grant Director, Cindy Fagan!

How long have you been working at the Club? have been working at the Club for about 15 years. One of the best things about working here for so long has been seeing the organization’s transformation over the years. When started, there was only one Club site. We now have units in Asbury Park and Red Bank, sites in Long Branch and Neptune, and school-based programs throughout Monmouth County.

programs for students in health, education, employment, recreation, the arts, and humanities for the past 22 years.

I am impressed with the Boys & Girls Club’s success with its members.

I have seen what their growth trajectory looks like. think their mission statement is in line with my own personal values. We have like minds and ideas and we all want what’s best for the children in the various communities we serve.

What is a personal or professional accomplishment that you are most proud of? am most proud of partnering with McDonald’s at their Neptune location. Each February for the African American Read-In we go into the restaurant and read to children. The children are provided with educational info and other goodies from McDonald’s. Bringing local businesses together to meet the needs of the community is very important to me. I have cooked for and and fed families at the Ronald McDonald House in Long Branch (pictured, left) as well as assisted in renovating the rooms. take pride in organizing and delivering food baskets for Thanksgiving and coats, gloves, scarfs, toys, and gift cards for Christmas. I have planned community service activities for Gap Outlet, UGG Company Store, and others.

Would you like to share anything about yourself, such as a favorite hobby or activity? I enjoy organizing, implementing, and volunteering for a host of activities. love to read to children. I am an avid traveler–traveling opens my mind to new experiences, and can then frame those experiences into activities for the children I work with. am also a member of two national organizations that focus on serving children. People that know me will say my motto is “Keep it Moving.” Be kind and share your knowledge. I look forward to serving on the BGCM board and working for the children!

Fun with a Purpose: Summer Camp at the Club

Dear Friends,

It has been said that the true measure of a life welllived lies not in the wealth amassed, but in the positive change brought to others’ lives. As the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County celebrates our 85th year of service, I am filled with immense gratitude when I think about the innumerable individuals who have played a part in our story over the years. The volunteers who selflessly gave of their time and talent. The leaders who devoted their careers to building up our young people. The supporters who chose to invest their hard-earned money in our mission. The parents who have trusted us with their entire world—their children.

Thank You to...

Tickets & sponsorship information Come dressed in killer attire… you can choose to be haunting or haute for our biggest, most outrageous fundraiser of the year, but however you are, be thrilling!

I have stayed so long because of the great team of people I would work with who are all committed to supporting children in the community. The hard work of our entire team makes the process of grant development much easier.

What was it about the Club that drew you to the organization?

The mission of the Club is what drew me to the organization. Having my own children, recognized the value of empowering kids to reach their potential. felt could help contribute to the organization and help build better futures.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of working at the Club?

The most rewarding aspect of working at the Club is seeing the direct result of grant development on the organization. Grant funding has helped launch and support programs like Project L.E.A.D., Trauma-Informed Care, and Y-Media. It is also helped us improve the facility, produce professional development opportunities, and provide scholarships for programs. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing how my role has a direct impact on our community.

At the Club, we understand the immense impact that summer camps can have on a child’s development. Camp is not just a place for recreation and relaxation; it is an opportunity for children to cultivate essential life skills and values. Through our carefully designed programs, we aim to nurture our campers’ social, emotional, and cognitive growth, setting them on a path to a bright future. Our campers experienced a wide array of activities this summer that facilitated social-emotional learning. From team-building exercises to mindfulness practices, they learned to communicate effectively, empathize with others, and develop crucial interpersonal skills. These lessons in emotional intelligence are invaluable and will undoubtedly serve them well throughout their lives.

One of the highlights for our campers was the series of exciting field trips! Going on excursions together allowed our campers to gain a deeper appreciation for their surroundings and local culture. These trips broaden our kids’ horizons, fostering curiosity and the desire to have new experiences. By integrating arts programs into our camp curriculum, our campers were able to unleash their creativity, discovering new talents and boosting their self-confidence. From painting and drawing to music and dance, our camps provided a channel for self-expression and discovery.

Academic enrichment was another major component of our summer camps. Through tutoring sessions and STEAM activities, we aimed to bridge learning gaps and prevent

None of this would have been possible without our dedicated staff, who served as positive role models, guiding campers through challenges and encouraging them to reach their full potential.

summer learning loss. By supporting their academic growth, we are nurturing a love for learning and helping our campers prepare to start the school year strong. None of this would have been possible without our dedicated staff, who served as positive role models, guiding campers through challenges and encouraging them to reach their full potential. These relationships are key to creating a supportive and nurturing environment, instilling a sense of belonging that is crucial to youth development. We are incredibly grateful for the additional time that summer camp gives us with our Boys & Girls Club members, providing us with the opportunity to create meaningful connections and make a positive impact in their lives.

As a partner in our work, I invite you to consider the profound influence that you’ve already had on countless young lives through your support of the Boys & Girls Club. Your contributions have directly translated into brighter futures, stronger communities, and empowered individuals who will carry the lessons they’ve learned at the Boys & Girls Club into their adulthood.

Each story of success, each obstacle overcome, and each dream realized by a child at our Club is a testament to the enduring legacy we’re building. Together, we have created a place where children can be themselves, discover their passions, and become leaders of tomorrow.

As we look to the future, our mission remains as vital as ever. The world is changing, and our children face new challenges and opportunities. But our commitment to them is steadfast. We will continue to be there for them, guiding them, inspiring them, and helping them become the best versions of themselves.

On behalf of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County, I extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you. Your belief in our mission and your support for our cause have made all the difference.

Here’s to the next 85 years of legacy, impact, and success! With gratitude,

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation for addressing barriers to workforce development by directing grant funding to support Project L.E.A.D. (Learning, Earning, and Advancing Dreams), our teen empowerment and employment program that builds workforce skills through mentorship, employment, and education. The initiative engages over 20 teens through a comprehensive approach that creates opportunities for them to develop skills that will empower them to become socially and economically self-sufficient. Bank of America has worked with BGCM for several years, helping to drive economic mobility for youth in our community. We appreciate their generous support and continued investment to support our mission.

The Jules L. Plangere, Jr. Family Foundation, OceanFirst Foundation, Monmouth Arts, and the State of New Jersey’s Juvenile and Delinquency Prevention (JJDP) Committee and the Justice Commission for supporting summer camp this year. The generous grants from these organizations provided summer camp scholarships for over 225 students and art supplies in our locations in Asbury Park, Red Bank, Long Branch, and Neptune.

Douglas Eagles CEO