Club Highlights – May 2026
MAY CLUB HIGHLIGHTS 20th AnniversaryGenerals Club Gathering! We had a blast at our 20th Generals Club Gathering at Funky Buddha! This year, Doug Cady, President of AA Advance Air, Inc., was honored with the Generals Club Leadership Award. And one of our very own, 2025 Youth of the Year, Nashon H. from our Leo Goodwin Foundation Teen Center addressed our Generals regarding his interest in the electrical field. Nashon is one of the many Club members who attended our Annual Generals Construction Career Day in March. The Generals Club was founded by visionary leaders Terry Stiles, Tom Miller, Bob Case, and Kurt Langsenkamp, and continues to thrive under the dedicated leadership of Chair Krystyna Ermer. An Award of Gratitude was presented to Bob Case for his many years of heartfelt passion poured into The Generals Club Program. All proceeds from The Generals Club Gathering directly support the continuation of this impactful program, helping to provide vital opportunities and resources for our youth at BGCBC. We thank our 2026 Generals Club Members: 20th Anniversary VIP GeneralJA&M Developing, LLC – Annie Mecias-Murphy 5 Star GeneralsAA Advance Air, Inc. – Doug Cady C. Davis Electric Co., Inc. – Mike Gagliano Nielson, Hoover & Company, ACRISURE – Chuck Nielson Slade Construction – Jeff Slade Steel Fabricators – Max Turner Stiles Corporation – Ken Stiles Thermal Concepts – Krystyna Ermer Rita & Rick* Case FamilyGary Wendt Associate GeneralsAll Atlantic Benefits – John Tolan, Brandon Kress, Veronica Ferrari Empire Lighting Resources – Bob Caggiano FPL – Sean October Verizon Business – Vincent Peragin Associate GeneralsAction Roofing – Anthony Perera Amalgamated Construction – Das Khan ANF Group, Inc. – Al Fernandez, Nelson Fernandez Charland Rurey Construction – Bill Charland, Tim Rurey Hotwire Communications – Brian LaTorre Inspected – Ian Cohen Scaff-Tech, LLC – Edward Rodriguez William R. Nash – Ryan Nash Thank you to all our staff, supporters, community partners and Board Chair, Peter Oldbury for helping make this happen! Join our General’s Club Today Read More 14th Annual Bowling For Kids Event We are so grateful to all of our supporters, staff and community partners that came out for “Bowling For Kids” event supporting our Marti Huizenga Club. This Club has long been a staple in the City of Hollywood, serving as a safe and supportive space for generations of youth and families. Your generosity keeps our Clubs and Teen Centers going. Donate Today College Decision Day From acceptance letters to final choices, our Teens are officially committing to the next chapter of their journey. With confidence, courage, and the support of their mentors, families, and Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County, these future leaders are heading to colleges and universities ready to thrive. Whether they’re the first in their family to attend college or continuing a legacy, this moment represents hard work, resilience, and a bright future ahead. Join us in celebrating our scholars as they say, “Yes!” to their future. Empower Our Youth The Jesus Luzardo Family Foundation Scholarships The Jesus Luzardo Family Foundation awarded scholarships to 10 graduating seniors who maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher and demonstrate outstanding character and academic excellence, helping them further their education. Help us congratulate our amazing graduates! Ben S. – Carver Ranches Club Richard R.- Carver Ranches Club Zyann D. – Carver Ranches Club Winson C. -Florence A. DeGeorge Cub Luigi M.- Fred DeLuca Teen Center Naomy J. – Marti Huizenga Club Delanie C. – Marti Huizenga Club Timothy S. – Lester H. White Club/NFL Yet Center Hervinica B. – Leo Goodwin Foundation Teen Center Marlee M. – Leo Goodwin Foundation Teen Center This effort reflects the foundation’s mission to support academic success and expand opportunities for our youth. We are so gracious to Jesus and The Jesus Luzardo Family Foundation for their continuous support of our mission. Hair Braiding Superstars Congratulations to the 14 Club members who graduated from our Hair Braiding Class Program! In collaboration with the City of Hollywood and under the instruction of Ms. Ashley Williams from 1 Salon Life Academy, participants learned the fundamentals of hair braiding and earned their Salon Assistant and Hair Braiding certificates. Big thanks to City of Hollywood and 1 Salon Life Academy for supporting this initiative! Click Here to Get Started STEM in action In partnership with The City of Deerfield, our youth at our Jim & Jan Moran Club, had the privilege of exploring math in motion, discovering the science behind bubbles, and even got the chance to dive into hands-on activities that brought real-world problem solving to life. Programs like these spark curiosity, build confidence and show our youth what’s possible when learning is interactive, engaging and fun. We thank the City of Deerfield for their unwavering dedication to support our youth! Shape Bright Futures with Us Impact 4 Good Hosts a Bike Build Teamwork brings great joy during Impact 4 Good’s Bike Build event, hosted at Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa. Because of the incredible hands-on effort from our partners and volunteers, 20 brand new bikes complete with helmets and locks are now headed home with Club members, giving them freedom, confidence, and a whole new way to explore their world. Thank you Impact 4 Good for partnering with us. Fuel Bright Futures Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Educators make a lasting impact by inspiring confidence, encouraging growth, and helping students and our Club members reach their full potential. Afterschool Professionals Appreciation week is a meaningful time to recognize their dedication, patience, and the difference they make every day. 2026 Boys & Girls Clubs of America National Conference We were proud to represent Broward County at the 2026 BGCA National Conference in Charlotte, NC. Bringing together leaders from across the country, the conference was a powerful reminder that the work happening locally at BGCBC is part of a much bigger movement dedicated to empowering young people everywhere. We returned inspired, energized and equipped with new ideas, strategies and connections that will directly strengthen the experiences we create for the
Leadership, Gratitude, and Big Dreams: Highlights from The Generals Clubs Gathering 20th Anniversary!
Leadership, Gratitude, and Big Dreams: Highlights from The Generals Clubs Gathering 20th Anniversary! Doug Cady, President of AA Advance Air, Inc., was recognized with the Generals Club Leadership Award during the 20th Anniversary celebration of The Generals Club on April 23 at Funky Buddha’s Barrel Room. The evening brought together community leaders, supporters, and advocates to celebrate two decades of impact, leadership, and opportunity for youth at BGCBC. Founded by visionary leaders Terry Stiles, Tom Miller, Bob Case, and Kurt Langsenkamp, The Generals Club has grown into a powerful force for good in the community. Today, the program continues to thrive under the dedicated leadership of Chair Krystyna Ermer, whose commitment helps carry its mission forward. Learn About the Program A special highlight of the evening was the presentation of an Award of Gratitude to Bob Case in recognition of his many years of heartfelt dedication and passion for The Generals Club program. His contributions have helped shape the program’s legacy and lasting impact. The event also featured an inspiring moment from one of BGCBC’s own. Nashon H., the 2025 Youth of the Year from our Leo Goodwin Foundation Teen Center, addressed the audience and shared his interest in pursuing a career in the electrical field. Nashon is one of many Club members who participated in the Annual Generals Construction Career Day in March, where young people were introduced to career pathways and hands-on opportunities in the construction industry. More than a celebration, the Generals Club Gathering was a meaningful investment in the future. All proceeds from the event directly support the continuation of this impactful program, helping provide valuable opportunities, mentorship, and resources for youth served by BGCBC. As The Generals Club celebrates 20 years of service and leadership, the mission remains clear: to create brighter futures for young people through community support, career exposure, and life-changing opportunities. We proudly thank our 2026 Generals Club Members for their continued support. View Gallery Learn More
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
Empowering Futures Through Annual Career Day
Empowering Futures Through Annual Career Day 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: 160Total 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 Find out more about our programs
Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County’s 29th ANNUAL AMAZON RANCH ROAM PRESENTED BY FRIENDS OF TONY NOVELLY AND HOSTED BY BERGERON FAMILY OF COMPANIES
Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County’s 29th ANNUAL AMAZON RANCH ROAM PRESENTED BY FRIENDS OF TONY NOVELLY AND HOSTED BY BERGERON FAMILY OF COMPANIES Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County’s 29th ANNUAL AMAZON RANCH ROAM PRESENTED BY FRIENDS OF TONY NOVELLY AND HOSTED BY BERGERON FAMILY OF COMPANIES The 29th Annual Amazon Ranch Roam presented by Friends of Tony Novelly and hosted by Bergeron Family of Companies took place on Saturday, March 28TH at “Alligators” Ron & Ali Bergeron’s Green Glades Ranch. From 6:00pm to “when the cows came home,” everyone had a blast! https://youtu.be/wDEeb0Cy9t8?si=ZTtTENVL5MYJbYBG Watch Video Ranch Roam is country western’s version of the “black-tie in cowboy boots”. This year’s event turned out to be the BEST ONE YET! We had the MOST Cattlemen, Cattlewomen and Cattlekids EVER… 102 STRONG! Guests were surprised and delighted with interactive entertainment around every corner. With the evening celebration set in one of South Florida’s most unique locations, “Alligators” Ron & Ali Bergeron’s Green Glades Ranch, guests could learn to line dance, ride a mechanical alligator, try their luck at the casino or shop around with local vendors in our Country Chic Boutique. Our Boys & Girls Club Members made creative greeting cards to showcase their artistic talents. There was a silent & live auction, gourmet seated dinner, a performance of the National Anthem by our very own, Peyton from our Jim & Jan Moran Club that brought the audience to its feet in resounding applause, and a private concert by country superstar, Meghan Patrick! It was a night for the ages that did not disappoint! Event Founders: Rita & Rick* Case and “Alligators” Ron & Ali Bergeron Event Chair: Kristene Lundblad Committee Members: Ron Bergeron, Jessica Barna, Diamond Bergeron, Brad Daniel, Allison Gilchrest, Brenden Hojara, Kristen Lichtman, Paul Lopez, Myra Neely, Pete Oldbury, Kali Parrish, Shawn Robarge, Stacy Stern, Chaz Warrington Gratitude to Our Sponsors and Partners: Title Sponsor: Amazon Presenting Sponsor: Friends of Tony Novelly Host Sponsor: Bergeron Family of Companies Entertainment Sponsor: Beasley Media Group Registration Sponsor: JM Family Enterprises, Inc. VIP Reception Sponsor: Cleveland Clinic Florida Program Sponsor & Vodka Sponsor: Tito’s Handmade Vodka Live Auction Sponsor: IRG Global Emergency Management Prosecco Cart Sponsor: Fratarcangeli Wealth Management Casino Sponsor: Tripp Scott Main Bar Sponsor: Core Construction Media Sponsor: Vision Media Official Jeweler: Daoud’s Fine Jewelry Vintage Truck Photo Opportunity: Azorra Aviation Silent Auction Sponsor: NSU Florida Digital Photo Op Sponsor: Ft. Lauderdale Mariners Club Mechanical Alligator Ride: David 2 Leather Factory Wanted Posters: HCA Florida Healthcare Raffle Sponsor: Canteen Specialty Raffle Sponsor: The Privée Lounge at The Colonnade Outlets at Sawgrass Mills Chili Chuck Wagon: Mayor Judy Paul Gator Boys: Working Nurses Homecare Wild West Cowboys: Grifs Western Courtyard Lighting & Centerpieces: The Special Events Group Wine Sponsor: Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants Beer Sponsor: Eagle Brands Sales Coffee Sponsor: Free Reign Coffee The Muscle Bar: Muscle Vodka Golf Cart Shuttles: Rick Case Automotive Group Lift & Parking Lot Lighting: Sunbelt Rentals Vector Cooling Units: Vector Climate If you would like to saddle up and become a Cattleperson or Sponsor, please contact: Amanda McCarthy at 954-537-1010 ext.235 or amccarthy@bgcbc.org Thank you for making this year’s Ranch Roam an extraordinary evening of impact and celebration! Hope to see you next year to celebrate in a big way at our 30th Annual Ranch Roam! View Gallery Watch Video
Club Highlights – March 2026
Club Highlights Role Models Who Inspire featuring Dr. Ben Carson When dynamic leaders lead by example, young minds are shaped! Through our “Role Models Who Inspire” program, we are honored to welcome and thank Dr. Ben Carson, retired neurosurgeon, academic, author, and government official, for enlightening our Teens at JM Family Teen Center in Deerfield Beach, FL. It’s meaningful moments like these that mold the path for our youth—showcasing the importance of success through hard work, dedication, integrity and leadership. Big thanks to our dedicated Board Member, Thomas Godart for all the support! Get More Info Welcoming Rear Admiral Ryan M. Perry into The BGCBC Hall of Fame We are proud to announce Admiral Ryan M. Perry as one of our highly esteemed 2026 BGCBC Alumni Hall of Fame Inductees. Rear Admiral Ryan M. Perry (retired) is a native of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He is a 1997 graduate of the United States Naval Academy. Perry holds a master’s degree in national security and strategic studies from the Naval War College and is accredited in public relations and military communication. Perry was a proud member of William E. Slaughter Club/ S. Robert Levine Club, formerly the North Lauderdale Club, where he learned life skills, and was presented with life-changing opportunities that guided him to where he is today. We are so honored to recognize him! Join us to congratulate him. Watch Video Read More Congrats, Chris Gentile! The 2025 W. Errol Sewell Leadership Award, also known as the Southeast CEO of the Year Award, is one of the highest honors a CEO can receive within the Boys & Girls Clubs of America Movement. Named after W. Errol Sewell — a transformational leader who helped establish more than 1,000 new Clubs nationwide and expanded the Boys & Girls Clubs Movement into public housing, schools, Native lands, and U.S. military installations — the award recognizes CEOs whose leadership strengthens the Movement through vision, integrity, and an unwavering focus on youth. We are proud to share that our very own Chris Gentile, Co-CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County, has been recognized by Boys & Girls Clubs of America with the W. Errol Sewell Leadership Award. Chris exemplifies Sewell’s legacy through his strategic leadership, deep community partnerships, and steadfast commitment to ensuring every young person has access to high-quality Club experiences. This recognition reflects not only his personal excellence, but also the strength, passion, and dedication of our entire organization to the mission of enabling all young people — especially those who need us most — to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. Congratulations, Chris. Your leadership continues to inspire us all. Topgolf Tournament: Fore the Kids Event We’re proud to celebrate the success of our 2nd Annual Topgolf Tournament Fore The Kids—an incredible event dedicated to supporting the Club members and teens we serve. Thanks to the generosity of our community, this event directly benefits our Thomas D. Stephanis Club and Hierholzer Teen Center, where teens gain access to academic support, mentorship, and leadership development opportunities that help them succeed both in school and in life. Programs like these play a critical role in improving academic outcomes, building confidence, and preparing our teens for brighter futures. We are especially grateful to Christy and Larry Hierholzer for their continued dedication and passion for empowering young people. Their support, along with the incredible partners that include Publix, J.R. Dunn Jewelers, AEF schools, The Bridge Group, All Atlantic Benefits and the Murphy Family all helped to make this event possible and impactful. Your support empowers our teens to succeed both academically and beyond. Thank you for investing in their future. We can’t wait to see the continued impact. Shape Futures, Together Generals Construction Career Day Success! The 2026 Generals Construction Career Day, hosted by Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County, welcomed more than 200 teen Club members, ages 14–18, for a high-energy, hands-on career exploration experience as we proudly celebrated 20 years of impact at the Leo Goodwin Foundation Teen Center/William E. Slaughter Club/S. Robert Levine Campus in North Lauderdale, FL with support from City of North Lauderdale Commissioner Darrell (Dee) Lewis-Ricketts. The event featured top construction and trade industry partners who led interactive learning stations with live demonstrations, hands-on activities, and direct engagement in fields such as roofing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, general contracting, engineering, and project management. Teens rotated through multiple stations, gaining insight into career pathways, certifications, earning potential, and apprenticeship opportunities while also building workplace readiness skills like communication, teamwork, and professionalism. We also highlighted alumni success stories, including Rick Case Vocational Scholarship recipients Jimmy Arneus, now enrolled in the HVAC program at Sheridan Technical College, and Zaden Jeantinord, pursuing Automotive & EV Technology at Universal Technical Institute. The day inspired and connected youth to real opportunities in the skilled trades, while providing companies with an organized, engaging platform to directly impact the future workforce of Broward County. Thank you to our staff and industry professionals who continue investing in the future of our workforce. Get Involved International Automotive Excellence Gala Recap The 19th Annual International Automotive Excellence Gala was an unforgettable evening celebrating leadership, innovation, and impact within the automotive industry. We were honored to recognize two remarkable leaders:– Rusty Wallace – 2026 Racing Automotive Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient– Teddy Morse – 2026 Dealer Automotive Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient The Gala raised critical funds for our youth development organization helping ensure our youth have access to mentorship, opportunity, and safe spaces to grow. A special thank you to our staff, supporters, community partners, board members and all who share the commitment to making this event a success year after year. Read More A Day in The Glades! Recently, some of our Club members went on an Everglades extravaganza! From an airboat ride to watching native animals interact in their natural habitats was educational and so much fun! The alligators and birds were seen while on the airboat ride, while the snakes, turtles, American crocodiles, and lizards were seen in enclosures
Hall of Fame, Full Circle: Christopher M. Barnett Honored by Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County
Hall of Fame, Full Circle: Christopher M. Barnett Honored by Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County Hall of Fame, Full Circle: Christopher M. Barnett Honored by Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County 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. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWbToXV5CQc 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.” Today, Barnett is widely known as an award-winning entrepreneur and healthcare innovator. He is the founder and leader of several organizations, including ICBD, ABA Centers, and CurativeAI, and has spent more than 20 years building and growing companies that aim to create both enterprise value and positive social impact. His work has earned national recognition, including the 2024 EY Entrepreneur Of The Year National Overall Award. His induction into the Hall of Fame is not just a celebration of business success, but of service. Barnett’s work in healthcare, philanthropy, and youth-focused community impact reflects the same values he learned at the Club as a child. Through his leadership and charitable efforts, he has remained focused on helping young people access mentorship, support, and life-changing opportunities. In honoring Christopher Barnett, Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County recognized a full-circle story: a young person shaped by the Club who grew into a leader dedicated to giving back. His induction stands as a powerful reminder of how mentorship, encouragement, and community investment can help shape not only individual success, but lasting impact for future generations. Read More
From Club Kid to Rear Admiral: Honoring Ryan M. Perry
From Club Kid to Rear Admiral: Honoring Ryan M. Perry From Club Kid to Rear Admiral: Honoring Ryan M. Perry Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County proudly celebrates the induction of Ryan M. Perry, U.S. Navy Rear Admiral (Ret.), whose journey began right here at the Club. A proud alumnus of Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County, Perry spent his youth at the William E. Slaughter Club on the S. Robert Levine Campus, formerly known as the North Lauderdale Club. Like many young people who walk through our doors every day, the Club provided a safe place to learn, grow, and dream about the future. Today, those dreams have come full circle. https://youtu.be/fAsW5ep33fs After graduating from the United States Naval Academy, Perry went on to serve with distinction in the United States Navy, building a remarkable career in leadership and strategic communications. His service to our country culminated in his role as the Navy’s Chief of Information, where he advised senior military leaders and oversaw global communications for the Navy. While his career took him across the world, his roots in Broward County and at the Club have remained strong. His induction into Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County Alumni Hall of Fame honors not only his incredible professional achievements, but also the powerful impact that the Club experience can have on a young person’s life. Perry’s journey from Club member to Rear Admiral stands as an inspiring example of what is possible when young people are given the opportunity, mentorship, and encouragement to succeed. Returning to support the next generation, Perry continues to demonstrate his commitment to the mission of Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County—ensuring that every child has access to the resources and guidance they need to reach their full potential. For the youth walking through the doors of the William E. Slaughter Club today, his story is a powerful reminder: the future is full of possibilities, and greatness can begin right here at the Club. Through his leadership, service, and dedication to giving back, Ryan M. Perry embodies the true spirit of a Boys & Girls Clubs alumnus—one who never forgets where he started and always finds a way to lift others along the way
HBCU Day at Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County: Opening Doors to Opportunity
HBCU Day at Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County: Opening Doors to Opportunity HBCU Day at Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County: Opening Doors to Opportunity Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County recently hosted an inspiring HBCU Day, creating a powerful opportunity for our teens to explore higher education pathways and connect directly with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The event brought together colleges, alumni organizations, community leaders, and students for a day focused on access, empowerment, and future success. One of the most exciting highlights was the opportunity for students to receive same-day college acceptances, giving many attendees the chance to take an immediate step toward their higher education goals. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8pn_Yu5fPH8 For many students, the ability to speak directly with representatives from HBCUs provided valuable insight into campus life, academic programs, scholarships, and the unique culture and legacy that HBCUs offer. These institutions have long played a vital role in developing leaders across industries, and HBCU Day helped our youth see themselves as part of that tradition. Events like HBCU Day are critical in expanding awareness and ensuring that students—especially those who may be the first in their families to attend college—have direct access to the information, resources, and encouragement they need to pursue higher education. The event also featured a powerful keynote address from Sukeenah Kelly, Founder of the Juneteenth Festival of Palm Beach County, who inspired Club members with a message about perseverance, community leadership, and the importance of embracing opportunities that lead to long-term success. Community leaders also joined in supporting the event, including Pamela Beasley-Pittman, and Torey Alston, President of Broward College, who is also a Board Member and Alumni Hall of Fame member of Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County. Through events like HBCU Day, Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County continues its commitment to preparing young people for bright futures by connecting them with educational institutions, mentors, and community leaders who believe in their potential. Special Thanks Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County extends a sincere thank you to the staff, colleges, alumni chapters, and community partners who helped make this event possible: Florida Memorial University FAMU National Alumni Association Broward Alumni Chapter Bethune-Cookman University Alabama State University South Florida Alumni Chapter Savannah State University South Florida Chapter National Alumnae Association of Spelman College – South Florida Chapter Pamela Beasley-Pittman Torey Alston, President of Broward College, BGCBC Board Member and BGCBC Alumni Hall of Fame Their support and dedication helped create a meaningful experience for our youth and reinforced the importance of investing in the next generation of leaders. SUPPORT OUR MISSION AND DONATE TODAY
What a Night! IAEG Highlights Are Here
Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County’s 19th Annual International Automotive Excellence Gala: A Resounding Success! Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County’s 19th Annual International Automotive Excellence Gala: A Resounding Success! Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County is proud to report that our 19th Annual International Automotive Excellence Gala, held on Saturday, February 21st, at the newly reimagined Pier Sixty-Six, was a night to remember! With Ed Morse Automotive Group as our esteemed Presenting Sponsor, the event brought together industry leaders for an evening of recognition, celebration, and philanthropy. Guests, dressed in their best gala attire, enjoyed a sophisticated Cocktail Reception presented by JM Family Enterprises, Gourmet Dinner, live entertainment by Vibe City Band and the opportunity to bid on one-of-a-kind auction items. We even had a Champagne Raffle, in which one lucky guest took home a $5,000 shopping spree courtesy of our Official Jeweler, J.R. Dunn Jewelers. Honoring Excellence in the Automotive Industry This year, we proudly recognized outstanding individuals with the 2026 Automotive Lifetime Achievement Awards: Racing Automotive Lifetime Achievement Award Rusty Wallace – NASCAR Hall of Fame 2023 Dealer Automotive Lifetime Achievement Award Teddy Morse – Chairman & CEO, Ed Morse Automotive Group & Teddy Morse’s Moto Company Incredible Generosity & Impact Big Wheels Sponsors raised an Incredible $320,000! A Heartfelt Thank You This event would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our sponsors, donors, and dedicated BGCBC staff. A special thank you to our Event Founder, Rita Case, and Event Chair, Frank Pena, along with our incredible Big Wheels: Margaret Anderson, Lindsey Appleby, Chris Atkins, Hayley & Grant Boloyan – Boloyan Family, Colin Brown, Brent Burns, Rita Case, Jill Coshland, Brian Danahy, Richard Danahy, George Davey, Sean Dunn, Jeff Dwyer, Charles Frasier, Randy Hoffman, Mindy Holman, Ken Hudson, Rob Johnson, Julia McDonald Family, Tom McDonald, Matt Modist, Cathy Morse, Patti Morse, Teddy Morse, Bruce Paddock, Frank Pena, Charles Pierce, Channy Sabates, Maleia Satterlee, Mark Sexton, Gary Wendt & Andrew Wurtele. Gratitude to Our Sponsors Presenting Sponsor: Ed Morse Automotive Group Big Thanks to Our Supporting Sponsors: Rick Case Automotive Group, Coral Springs Auto Mall, Holman, Haig Partners, Teddy Morse’s Moto Company, JM Family Enterprises, KPMG, Dealer Services Network, J.R. Dunn Jewelers, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Sun Sentinel / City & Shore Magazine, Vision Media. Thank you for making this year’s Galaan extraordinary evening of impact and celebration! Credit: Vision Media for outstanding video production and creative work Watch Video View Gallery
