Club Highlights – September 2026
Club Highlights Investing in Broward County’s Children, Families and Future Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County is proud to recognize the Children’s Services Council of Broward County (CSC Broward) for its continued investment in the children, teens, and families we serve. Through its partnership and support, CSC Broward helps young people access safe spaces, positive relationships, enriching experiences, and opportunities to grow and succeed. CSC Broward’s support allows us to provide meaningful services through several key programs. Through the Year-Round MOST Program, approximately 500 members benefit each year from safe, structured, enriching out-of-school-time programming that keeps young people engaged, learning, and connected throughout the school year and summer. Youth FORCE serves 75 middle school members annually, providing guidance, positive role models, and opportunities that help youth build confidence and make positive choices during an important stage of their development. Through the Family Strengthening Program, 72 families each year receive support designed to help parents and caregivers build stronger relationships, develop valuable skills, and connect with resources that contribute to healthier, more resilient families. CSC Broward’s investment also extends into communities through its support of Promise Neighborhoods, helping bring resources and opportunities to children and families living in underserved Broward County ZIP codes. By investing in neighborhoods where resources and opportunities can have a meaningful impact, CSC Broward helps strengthen the communities surrounding our Clubs and ensures that more young people have access to the support they need to thrive. What makes CSC Broward’s partnership especially meaningful is its commitment to accountability, measurable outcomes, and long-term impact. Their investment encourages organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County to continually evaluate our work, strengthen our programs, and remain focused on achieving meaningful results for the young people and families we serve. We are incredibly grateful to Cindy Arenberg Seltzer, the Council members, and the entire CSC Broward team for their partnership and unwavering commitment to the children and families we serve. Together, we’re making a lasting impact, one child, one family, one community and one opportunity at a time. Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month This Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate the rich cultures, traditions, histories and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities that continue to shape and strengthen South Florida and beyond. At Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County, we’re proud to celebrate the diverse backgrounds and stories that make our Clubs stronger and our community brighter. Together, we honor the past, celebrate the present and inspire the next generation to lead with pride, purpose and possibility. Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month This Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate the rich cultures, traditions, histories and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities that continue to shape and strengthen South Florida and beyond. At Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County, we’re proud to celebrate the diverse backgrounds and stories that make our Clubs stronger and our community brighter. Together, we honor the past, celebrate the present and inspire the next generation to lead with pride, purpose and possibility. Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! Big Conversation & Even Braver Voices Our Teen Mental Health Summit gave BGCBC Teens a space to speak up, get involved and take an active role in the conversation around mental health. Throughout the event, teens connected with peers and community partners, explored important mental health topics, and learned how they can become advocates for themselves and others. It was a day centered on empowering young people to use their voices, break down stigma and help create a community where talking about mental health is encouraged, supported and heard. More than just a day of conversation, the summit encouraged our Teens to recognize the power of their voices and their ability to create change. By equipping young people with knowledge, resources and confidence, we’re helping them become advocates for mental wellness in their Clubs, schools and communities. When our youth has the space to be heard, they have the power to help others feel heard, too. Together, we’re building a future where every young person knows it’s okay to speak up, ask for help and support one another. Learn More About Our Life & Resiliency Skills Program Honor Rick Case’s Legacy, Support Our Youth! On September 21, we celebrated the life and legacy of Rick Case, a true champion for South Florida’s youth and a longtime friend of Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County. His belief in the power of opportunity continues to live on through the Rick Case Scholarship Fund, helping Club members pursue higher education and build brighter futures. Every scholarship awarded is a reminder that Rick’s legacy isn’t just remembered, it’s continuing to change lives. Here’s to keeping his vision, generosity and commitment to our community alive for generations to come. Learn More About Shaping Bright Futures Through Rick’s Legacy Big Dreams, Great Futures: Alligators Ron & Ali Bergeron Champion Our Youth We love when our longtime supporters stop by to inspire the next generation! Ron Bergeron recently visited the Rita & Rick Case Club, spending time with our Club members, sharing words of encouragement and reminding them that their dreams are within reach. From meaningful conversations to plenty of smiles, Ron reminded our youth that where you start doesn’t determine where you can go. We’re thankful for supporters like Ron & Ali who show up, connect with our youth and help them see what’s possible. And for our Club kids, moments like these can spark new ideas, build confidence and inspire them to think bigger about what’s possible. We’re grateful for Ron’s continued investment in our Clubs and his commitment to helping our youth reach their full potential. Here’s to dreaming bigger, aiming higher and building up the next generation of youth. Congrats, Chris Gentile & Dr. Nicole Melendez! A new chapter of leadership has begun at Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County! Please join us in congratulating Chris Gentile, now serving as President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and Dr. Nicole Melendez, promoted to Chief Operating Officer (COO) of BGCBC!
Club Highlights – June/July 2026
Club Highlights Fanatics Global Volunteer Day Fanatics Global Volunteer Day was a success! Over 40 of their staff showed true dedication to helping keep our Clubs and Teen Centers looking their best. Thank you Fanatics for spending your time serving at our Carver Ranches Club and Rita & Rick Case Club/The Harry T. Mangurian Jr. Foundation Teen Center. Your energy, teamwork, and commitment to our youth make a meaningful impact on our Club members and staff alike. We appreciate your continued partnership and support in creating safe, inspiring spaces for the young people we serve. Get Involved with Us Building Resilience and Encouraging Support: Grassroots Soccer Clinic Last week, we had a ball during the Life & Resiliency Skills Clinic! Our Club members showed up ready to learn how to handle life’s curveballs—building confidence, teamwork and resilience—one kick at a time. From games on the field to powerful discussions off it, it was all about sparking meaningful connections and growing stronger together. Experiences like these have a profound impact on our youth, and encourage difficult discussions in an open, supportive environment. BIG thanks to our new friends over at Grassroot Soccer for energizing our youth through meaningful conversation and plenty of movement! We are also incredibly grateful for the generous donation from NBC 6/Telemundo 51. Contributions like these directly impact the youth we serve and unlock opportunities for them to thrive. We cannot thank you enough for echoing our mission! Looking forward to building more together in the future! Learn More about Our Life & Resiliency Program Thank you, Ross! Thank you to Ross and every single shopper who rounded up to support BGCBC at checkout. Your generosity fuels academic support, homework help and enrichment opportunities our youth need to succeed in school and beyond. Together, we are empowering local Club members to thrive every single day. And we can’t thank you enough for helping us equip future generations with the tools and resources to build bright futures. Keep it going! Donate Now On a Roll with Honor Roll! We are incredibly proud to celebrate the academic success of our Honor Roll students at our Clubs. Our Club members’ hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence continue to inspire us every day, and we are so happy to recognize their achievements. We had celebrations at our Carver Ranches Club, Nan Knox Club/Linda & Douglas Von Allmen Campus and William E. Slaughter Club/S. Robert Levine Campus. Our programs promote growth and opportunity. Congratulations to all of our Honor Roll students! We are proud of you and excited to see all that you will continue to accomplish. Learn More About Our 4 Pillars of impact Celebrating Spirit, Strength & Teamwork! Energy, teamwork and Club spirit were on full display as our talented girl Club members took the floor for an exciting cheerleading competition. Representing their Clubs with pride, participants showcased impressive routines, creativity and dedication while demonstrating the confidence and leadership skills they have developed throughout the year. The event celebrated more than athletic ability—it highlighted perseverance, sportsmanship and the power of working together toward a common goal. We are incredibly proud of each participant for their hard work, enthusiasm and commitment to excellence. Congrats to our winners! Winners – Division I 6-11 yrs old Gold- Reitman Silver- Levine Bronze- Carver Ranches Division II Gold- Reitman Silver – LEO Bronze- JM Teen Center Spirit award- Levine/LEO Enriching Future Leaders: AT&T Donates 275 Laptops! A huge thank you to AT&T for generously providing 175 laptops to our Lauderhill Boys & Girls Club! Their investment in our Academic Success pillar is helping equip Club members with the technology they need to learn, grow, and thrive. In today’s world, access to technology is an essential part of education. Check Out the Story Panda Cares: In and Out of the Classroom We are grateful for our continued partnership with Panda Cares, whose support helps create meaningful learning experiences for our Club members both inside and outside the classroom. Through zoo field trips, hands on projects, academic support, and engaging activities, our members have been able to build confidence, spark curiosity, and grow through Project Learn. With the dedication of our incredible staff and the support of Panda Cares, these opportunities continue to make a meaningful impact on the youth we serve. Check out Our Blog MODS Parent Night We had an amazing time at our recent Family Science Night at the Museum of Discovery and Science! By exposing our Club members’ minds to a deeper level of science, technology, engineering, and math, we are giving them the tools, confidence, and inspiration to succeed both inside and outside the classroom. A special thank you to our incredible staff and teams who helped make this event such a success, and to our generous supporters, Wayne and Lucretia Weiner, whose commitment to education and community impact helped make this experience possible and all who are involved. Learn More DeLuca Foundation Training DeLuca Foundation Lab is a three-day collaborative learning experience designed to strengthen implementation of the Life & Workforce Readiness (LWR) and Academic Success frameworks across Boys & Girls Clubs supported by the Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation. Through peer learning, planning sessions, reflection, and strategy development, attendees deepen their understanding of program quality, data practices, intervention planning, and alignment between LWR and Academic Success outcomes. We had such a great time collaborating with our team and other teams at BGCA during this workshop! Community Connections with BSO A big thank you to Broward Sherrif’s Office (West Park, FL) for visiting our Carver Ranches Club and taking the time to educate our teens about safe driving practices. The session provided valuable information on the dangers of distracted driving, the importance of staying focused behind the wheel, and practical ways new drivers can stay safe on the road. As many of our teens prepare to become first-time drivers, these conversations are critical in helping them develop responsible habits that can protect themselves, their passengers, and others in our community. Thank you for supporting our Club
Club Highlights – April 2026
Club Highlights Empowering Futures Through Annual Career Day Our BGCBC Annual Career Day engaged 160 teens in a dynamic experience focused on career exposure, exploration, and meaningful connections with industry professionals. Through interactive stations and real-world conversations, participants gained insight into a variety of career pathways while building confidence in their future goals. The event was designed to inspire our teens to explore both immediate workforce opportunities and long-term college and career options. We extend our gratitude to American Heritage in Plantation, FL, whose support and generous hosting made this event possible. Our teens also completed a post-event survey where they selected a “Pathway of the Day,” helping them reflect on which career best fit their interests in industries such as law, media, aviation, and culinary. Total Teens Attended: 160 Total Professionals/Speakers: 20+ Speaker: Stichiz from 103.5 the Beat Our BGCBC Annual Career Day engaged 160 teens in a dynamic experience focused on career exposure, exploration, and meaningful connections with industry professionals. Through interactive stations and real-world conversations, participants gained insight into a variety of career pathways while building confidence in their future goals. The event was designed to inspire our teens to explore both immediate workforce opportunities and long-term college and career options. We extend our gratitude to American Heritage in Plantation, FL, whose support and generous hosting made this event possible. Our teens also completed a post-event survey where they selected a “Pathway of the Day,” helping them reflect on which career best fit their interests in industries such as law, media, aviation, and culinary. Total Teens Attended: 160 Total Professionals/Speakers: 20+ Speaker: Stichiz from 103.5 the Beat Moments That Matter: We provided free professional attire to our teens, helping them confidently prepare for interviews, internships, and career success. Participating Organizations & Career Stations RealEdge Labs JetBlue The Florida Bar – Young Lawyers Division Fifth Third Bank Dade County Federal Credit Union Marine Industries Association of South Florida Bank of America Career Closet 1SalonLife Culinary Synergy Xanadu Academy Plantation Fire Department Broward Center for the Performing Arts Dr. Hans Dorval Old Navy Pollo Tropical BGCBC People & Culture Department BGCBC Aquatics Department Moments That Matter: We provided free professional attire to our teens, helping them confidently prepare for interviews, internships, and career success. Participating Organizations & Career Stations RealEdge Labs JetBlue The Florida Bar – Young Lawyers Division Fifth Third Bank Dade County Federal Credit Union Marine Industries Association of South Florida Bank of America Career Closet 1SalonLife Culinary Synergy Xanadu Academy Plantation Fire Department Broward Center for the Performing Arts Dr. Hans Dorval Old Navy Pollo Tropical BGCBC People & Culture Department BGCBC Aquatics Department Find Out More About Our Programs Jakeclaude M: Youth of the Year State Finalist We would like to congratulate Jakeclaude M. on being selected as a 2026 Florida Youth of the Year Finalist. We are incredibly proud of him for this outstanding achievement. His hard work, dedication, and growth throughout this journey have truly set him apart. Watching him step into his voice and represent our organization with confidence has been inspiring. This moment is well deserved, and we are excited to see all that he will accomplish next. Learn More About our Youth of the Year Welcoming Christopher M. Barnett into The BGCBC Hall of Fame Christopher M. Barnett has been inducted into Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County’s Alumni Hall of Fame, an honor recognized during the 2026 Today’s Youth, Tomorrow’s Leaders event presented by ABA Centers in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The honor reflects both his personal journey as a former “Club Kid” and his continued commitment to creating opportunity for young people across Broward County. For Barnett, the recognition is especially meaningful because of the role the Lauderhill Boys & Girls Club played in his early life. It gave him structure, mentorship, encouragement, and a sense of belonging during his formative years. Those experiences helped shape his confidence, work ethic, and belief in the power of community. As Barnett said, “It’s our family’s goal to preserve generational principles of humanity. As a child, the Club was that sense of humanity for me, before I even knew what that meant.” Watch Video Read More FAMU Spring Preview Trip Recently, Delanie, Ben, Ania, and Marlee, all current Youth of the Year participants, proudly represented us while attending the FAMU Spring Preview Trip! During the trip, they toured the campus, connected with students and staff, and gained valuable insight into academic programs, student life and the college admissions process. For our Teens, this visit was more than just a college campus tour. Instead, it was an experience full of culture, pride, belonging and possibility! —————————————“The trip was a very fun experience, especially the bus ride on the way there and back. We learned a lot of things and got to see the nice landscape of FAMU as we were touring some of the buildings. We were presented with various types of information such as the different programs/majors FAMU has to offer, more about the college I’m going into (CSSAH), dorm life, and which buildings to go to for certain things. I am choosing FAMU because of the environment and the culture that it embodies. Going to this university would constantly remind me what an honor it is to be a black student and would give me such a strong sense of belonging I wouldn’t find anywhere else.” –Marlee (attending FAMU this Fall) “FAMU was definitely an unforgettable experience. From touring the dorms to hearing the Marching 100 perform, everything just felt real and exciting. What stood out to me the most is how much they embrace creativity and individuality—you can tell it’s a place where people are free to be themselves. That’s a big reason why I’m choosing FAMU after BC.” –Ben (attending FAMU after Broward College) “The trip was amazing! I learned so much about not only my future major, but about FAMU and all of the opportunities waiting for me. What made me so captivated about FAMU was their spirit. They carry the title of being a student, professor, alumni etc with such pride showing just how much this school means to
Big News: Dolphins Camp, MODS & a Brand-New Teen Center!
Club Highlights Incoming: New Florence A. De George Teen Center We are honored and excited to share the great news that Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County has secured a $400,000 state appropriation to build a brand-new Teen Center at our Florence A. De George Club in Davie FL! We want to thank Senator Dr. Barbara Sharief and Representative Michael Gottlieb for their commitment to helping Broward’s youth and believing in their future. We appreciate you taking time to tour our Club and meet our Club members. This upcoming Teen Center will allow us to serve our youth ages 13-18 with the tools they need. With this investment, we’re able to continue to focus on our 4 pillars of impact: Academic Success Character & Leadership Health & Well-Being Life & Workforce Readiness We also want to say a huge thank you to our partners: TSE Consulting, and every supporter who contributes to help keep our mission going. Help Support Our Youth Development Organization Today! Carter’s X BGCA Cause Campaign Afterschool academic support helps kids stay on track throughout the school year, while fun and engaging summer programming combats summer learning loss in areas like math and reading. Help youth achieve academic success by donating at checkout at your local Carters Inc. Your donation will allow Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County to continue offering programs that inspire a love of learning in and out of the classroom. Learn More About The Initiative Manheim by Cox Automotive X BGCA Cause Campaign We’re proud to partner with Manheim by Cox Automotive as they kick off their annual fundraiser to support Boys & Girls Clubs across the country! Now through August 31, Manheim locations nationwide are rallying together to raise funds that directly support STEM programming at local Clubs—like Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County. These programs spark curiosity, build critical thinking skills, and prepare young people for the careers of tomorrow. Thank you, Manheim, for helping to open doors and create brighter futures through the power of STEM! Join The Cause Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County at MODS This incredible new partnership will provide a safe and supportive environment, promote academic, social and emotional development and enhance a love for learning in an immersive museum setting that inspires curiosity, imagination and creativity. Our Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County at MODS “Fueling Great Futures Through STEM” program will engage youth from diverse backgrounds, foster a sense of belonging, provide mentorship and guidance and open doors to youth who might otherwise lack access to enriching experiences in a museum. We want to thank our generous supporters Wayne and Lucretia Weiner and UKG for their in-kind contributions. Their support is helping us fuel futures and shape tomorrow’s leaders. Read on About the Program Components 4-Session Entrepreneur Course Facilitated by Jonathan Fichman Congratulations to the Teen Club members at The Harry T. Mangurian Jr. Foundation Teen Center on completing our 4-session entrepreneurship course, facilitated by Jonathan Fichman. Over several weeks, our Teen Club members learned how to develop business ideas, create business plans, and deliver professional presentations. Then they had the chance to proudly showcased their final pitches to a panel of judges. All Club members received certificates of completion. The top three business presentations were awarded gift cards ranging from $50 to $100, and our first-place winner Avery B also received an iPad to support the launch of their business. We’re so proud of their hard work and can’t wait to see what they do. Visit www.bgcbc.org to learn more about us. BGCA Presents Dove Self Esteem Project We are so ecstatic that our Club members were a part of Boys & Girls Clubs of America presents Dove Self-Esteem Project event! Thank you to all our Lauderhill Club members and staff for helping make this happen. Watch the Recap Video Congrats, Chris Gentile! We’re thrilled to celebrate yet another proud moment for one of our very own, Chris Gentile, Co-CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County on his appointment to the Board of Directors for the Florida Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs. Chris has dedicated a decade to empowering our Broward County youth and strengthening our South Florida community far beyond our blue doors.Now, he’ll bring that same unwavering passion, vision, leadership and commitment to support Boys & Girls Clubs across the entire state of Florida! Congratulations, Chris, on this well-deserved recognition! We are so proud of you and the incredible work you continue to do. We can’t wait to see you shine throughout our great state. Florida “Club Kids” just gained another fierce advocate! Read More About His Significant Milestone Back-to-School Initiatives/ Events We are so thankful to the following individuals/companies who helped our Club members/Teens gear up for the new school year. Bradley Chubb – Back-to-School Bash at Lester H. White JCPenney – Back-to-School shopping experience in Broward Mall Manheim by Cox Automotive- Backpack & School Supplies Donations donated to Rita & Rick Case Club members Ed Morse – Shop-With-A-Cop (New kicks for some of our lucky Club members) Florida Blue- Back-to-School Event in Sunrise Your generous donation of backpacks, supplies, shoes and more, gets our youth ready to learn, dream and achieve. Thank you for helping us shape futures! Miami Dolphins: A Fun-Filled Day at Training Camp Our Marti Huizenga Club members were ecstatic to join Bradley Chubb and the Chubb Foundation for a memorable day in Miami Gardens. From a private tour of the facilities to sitting on the field (VIP style) for an up-close view of training camp, our youth had a blast! Special thanks to Bradley Chubb and Chubb Foundation for the continued support of our youth! Shape Futures With Us Summer M.O.S.T. Program Topgolf Fun with a Purpose! Our Summer M.O.S.T. program, powered by the Children’s Services Council of Broward County helps us take learning beyond the classroom with an exciting field trip to Topgolf! Through this real-world adventure, Club members sharpened focus, built teamwork, and had a blast—all while staying active
