24 Feb Newsletter

CLUB

CONNECTION WINTER 2023

www.bgcw.org | @bgcofwhittier Main Clubhouse: 7905 S. Greenleaf Ave. Whittier, CA 90602

Empowering Youth: Impact & growth The Boys & Girls Club of Whittier is making a significant impact on the community through a wide range of programs and activities for children. With continued expansion, the club now operates across 40 locations, offering new programs such as sports, dance, and choir. In partnership with school districts like Los Nietos and East Whittier City, we’ve launched a beforeschool program, catering to working families and providing productive activities for children before school hours.

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO OSCAR HERNANDEZ

Highlighting their commitment to youth development, the club recently held the Youth of the Year Program, recognizing outstanding high school members, community volunteers, and board members. This program, the highest honor bestowed by the Boys & Girls Club, showcases the remarkable strength and resilience of these young individuals. Their participation in such initiatives underscores their potential to become productive members of society.

We cannot express enough how thankful and proud we are of our community and staff who thrive to create positive learning opportunities for all 3,900 young members served by the Club. The dedication and passion exhibited by everyone involved truly make a difference in the lives of these children and their families.

The Boys & Girls Club expresses gratitude to all partners, the community, and supporters for their dedication to improving the lives of families and children in the area. Through collaborative efforts, we continue to create a positive impact and foster a brighter future for the community as a whole.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF WHITTIER & PICO RIVERA | FEBRUARY 2024

Volunteer Highlight

During our Annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon, we honored our community members who generously donated their time and efforts to our fundraising activities. Among those lauded were esteemed organizations such as the Pico Rivera Chamber of Commerce and the Whittier Chamber of Commerce, alongside notable individuals like Lauresa Valles, John Bogdanov, and Oscar Serrano, all esteemed local figures. Additionally, special recognition was extended to the Whittier Area Literacy Council, whose longstanding commitment to volunteerism and education has left an enduring impact since its establishment in 1967.

The impact of our volunteers was felt during our holiday events, where their dedication transformed gatherings into heartwarming celebrations of togetherness. Through their unwavering support, we were able to provide meals to thousands of families, ensuring that children experienced the joy of the season with pancake breakfasts and the receipt of multiple toys. Furthermore, our volunteers facilitated engaging activities, including carnival-style games hosted by the Community College Program, fostering an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie throughout the festivities.

As we reflect on the influence of our volunteers, we invite those interested in joining our noble cause.

Become part of our volunteer reserve list and contribute to our mission of supporting those who need us. To get involved, please contact Christine at Christines@bgcw.org. Your involvement can make a meaningful difference in our community and beyond.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF WHITTIER & PICO RIVERA | FEBRUARY 2024

NEW INTIATIVES Introducing the Community Connections Program Bridging College Students with Community Engagement The Community Connections Program is a new addition to the Boys & Girls Club of WhittierPico Rivera as of August 2023. The program aims to provide work-study opportunities, volunteer hours, and practicum class credits to local college and university students while fostering mentorship and volunteerism among the youth. These college students serve as positive role models and fulfills our mission, inspiring club members to attend college and return to give back to their community. By welcoming undergrads from outside of Whittier, the program showcases the charitable essence of our small town and the profound impact they have on the community.

The services offered by the CCP are Blooming Minds: providing after-school tutoring and social-emotional learning for K-8 students at the Whittier City School District and Sheriff's Youth Activity League in South Whittier; Magic Realm: teaching youth how to accomplish goals by playing video games at our Main Clubhouse and Evergreen locations; College Bound: supporting First-Gen high school students with finding their passions and aiding them through the college application process; Nuestra Voz: assisting Spanish speaking parents/guardians with tech classes and building community through a monthly book club; and our newly acquired Whittier Area Literacy Council: teaching youth and adults how to read, write, and speak the English language.

Boys & Girls Club supporters are encouraged to involve college students and share these entry-level opportunities in youth development programming. To learn more, please reach out to Robert Kondo, our College & Community Programs Director, at RKondo@bgcw.org.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF WHITTIER & PICO RIVERA | FEBRUARY 2024

The Club’s Impact 80% of Whittier Club members reported high emotional selfregulation, citing that they can calm themselves down when under stress 87% of Whittier Club members feel a sense of belonging at the Club 93% of Whittier Club members are on track to graduate from high school

OUR MISSION: To enable all young people to reach their full potential as productive caring responsible citizens.

Build Your Legacy

BY BECOMING A MONTHLY DONOR, YOU: 1. Make a lasting impact 2. Are part of the Club’s growth 3. Help those that need us Scan the QR code to learn how you can maximize your impact and help our youth pursue greatness.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF WHITTIER & PICO RIVERA | FEBRUARY 2024

2024 Youth of the Year is...

Hello! My name is Maya Elias. Spending time with my family, learning about different cultures, sleeping, and trying new experiences are what I like to do with any free time on my hands. Currently, I am a junior in El Rancho High School and plan to attend college once I graduate. I am undecided on my major, but I have an interest in public and business administrative work. I have been part of the Boys and Girls Club since my freshman year of high school, so having been with the club these past years, I am excited to grow and test my limits even more through being a part of Youth of the Year.

Programs: UPS Road Code/Driver Education, Stitch and Style Club, Fitness Club, Wellness Wednesday and LIT Summer Retreat.

School Involvement: Golf, Track & Field, Vice President of the Key Club, and President of California Scholarship Federation Program

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF WHITTIER & PICO RIVERA | FEBRUARY 2024

Singers from the Main Clubhouse choir relaxing after the performance.

Youth of the Year Committee co-chairs and Board Members, Laurie Baccus & Cheryl Estep introducing the show

Executive Director, Oscar Hernandez, sharing about our thriving program and growth.

Proud parents celebrating Vivienne Pelayo, an outstanding member, from Lakeview elementary.

Packed audience members, eagerly awaiting our 2024 Youth of the Year program.

Board member, Jason Zulke, moonlighting as the emcee of our show.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF WHITTIER & PICO RIVERA | FEBRUARY 2024

Save the Date!

“Tour De Great Futures” Spin event hosted by Michael Seril Fitness 4/6/24

Annual Community Golf Tournament at Friendly Hills Country Club 5/20/2024

50th Annual Gala & Silent Auction at Friendly Hills Country Club 9/21/2024 Stay up to date on upcoming events by following us on social media! @bgcwofwhittier