Club Highlights 2024 BGCBC Annual Awards Dinner
ANNUAL AWARDS DINNER 2024 2024 BGCBC ANNUAL AWARDS DINNER Our BGCBC Annual Awards Dinner is where we acknowledge the incredible work and dedication that staff, supporters, donors, Board members and community partners bring to our organization year after year. Because of your unwavering commitment, we are able to serve over 2,200 youth daily, providing them with the resources, guidance, and opportunities they need to thrive. Your contributions make this possible, and together, we are making an undeniable impact in the lives of young people across our community. Whether you’ve been with us for a few years or have been part of our journey for decades, your efforts are the foundation of our success. From day-to-day operations to mentoring, from outreach to event coordination as well as financial commitment, every role and every contribution matters—and it shows. We could not do this work without you, and we want to make sure you know just how much we appreciate the sacrifices, time, and energy you dedicate. It’s not just a job for us—it’s a shared mission, and it’s one that wouldn’t be possible without the heart and soul you invest in it. On behalf of the entire leadership team and Board thank you for all you do for our organization and Club members. We also want to thank City of Coral Springs Fire Chief, Mr. John Whalen, for sharing his Club alumni story. We are incredibly proud of the impact we are making together—and it’s because of all of you. Event Location: William E. Slaughter Club/S. Robert Levine CampusLeo Goodwin Foundation Teen Center VIEW GALLERY BGCBC ANNUAL AWARDS DINNER 2024 2024 Staff Awards 5 YEARS AWARDTeddrick DanielsTraci SandersLutravein BradshawRubly AntoineAlphonso GeorgeBrianna McGregorGaneshan SudamaNicole Ferguson 15 YEARS AWARDDelroy WedderburnAshley TisdaleMichael BaileyLeonca WoodsWillie Madison 20 YEARS AWARDMichele Clarke 2024 Corporate Board Awards 5 YEARS AWARDNichole AndersonJeff BrandtBrad DanielJohn EvansAnnie Mecias-MurphyLeon PerezEli HilalAndre Khan 10 YEARS AWARDChris White 30 YEARS AWARDTom McDonald 35 YEARS AWARDWilliam RotellaTom Miller
Club Highlights – December 2024
BGCBC YOUTH OF THE YEAR 2025 CELEBRATING OUR TOP 4 2025 YOUTH OF THE YEAR FINALISTS! After months of hard work and dedication, we are thrilled to announce our top 4 Youth of the Year finalists! This prestigious award honors exceptional teens who serve as role models and spokespersons for our Boys & Girls Clubs in Broward County. These young leaders have been recognized for their outstanding leadership, commitment to community service, academic excellence, and strong character—the highest achievement a Boys & Girls Club member can attain. Over the past 3 1/2 months, our 12 Youth of the Year candidates have dedicated themselves to refining their essays, resumes, and applications, with support from Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County staff. They also received valuable guidance from Rosh Lowe with MicDrop to perfect their speeches. Their hard work led to powerful presentations of their speeches that showcases their personal growth and dedication. Their speeches, along with their essays and resumes , were evaluated by a distinguished panel of judges, including Peter Oldbury, Vice Chair of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County Board; Sean October, District Area Manager at FPL; Dawn Miller, Mayor of Hillsboro Beach; and Michael Ryan, Mayor of Sunrise. All of our candidates did an amazing job, demonstrating incredible passion, commitment, and hard work throughout the process. We are incredibly proud of each and every one of them. We are excited to announce our Top 4 Youth of the Year Finalists: (top image, left to right): Roosevelt M., Lester H. White Club Youth of the Year Samiyah E., Rita & Rick Case Club Youth of the Year Luigi M., Fred DeLuca Teen Center Youth of the Year Emma A., Marti Huizenga Club Youth of the Year Please join us on Saturday, January 18th, 2025, for the Today’s Youth, Tomorrow’s Leaders Gala as we celebrate these incredible finalists and all of our Youth of the Year candidates from across Broward County. The evening will also feature the induction of three outstanding individuals into the Rita & Rick Case Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County Hall of Fame. Saturday, January 18th, 2025 Mark your calendars and be part of this special evening as we honor these extraordinary young leaders and their bright futures! VIEW EVENT DETAILS
Creating a Space for Academic Success: BGCBC’s New “Center of Hope”
Our “Center of Hope” located at our William E. Slaughter Club/S. Robert Levine Campus, made possible through a generous grant through BGCA (Boys & Girls Clubs of America) and Panda Cares Foundation is a hub of inspiration, learning, and growth for the youth we serve, providing a safe and supportive environment where they can thrive academically and personally. What Is the “Center of Hope”? The Center of Hope is more than just a physical space; it is an environment built to foster academic success and personal development. It is designed to offer a variety of programs and activities that engage young people in high-yield learning, which includes opportunities for hands-on experiences, tutoring, creative projects, and collaborative learning. Whether it’s tackling homework assignments, exploring STEM concepts, or simply diving into a good book, the Center of Hope is a place where young minds are nurtured and challenged. The space itself is welcoming and thoughtfully designed to ensure that all Club members feel safe, supported, and motivated to engage in learning. Project Learn: A Key Component of the Center of Hope The Center of Hope is more than just a physical space; it is an environment built to foster academic success and personal development. It is designed to offer a variety of programs and activities that engage young people in high-yield learning, which includes opportunities for hands-on experiences, tutoring, creative projects, and collaborative learning. Whether it’s tackling homework assignments, exploring STEM concepts, or simply diving into a good book, the Center of Hope is a place where young minds are nurtured and challenged. The space itself is welcoming and thoughtfully designed to ensure that all Club members feel safe, supported, and motivated to engage in learning. Project Learn incorporates activities that support academic, social, and cognitive growth through leisure reading to foster literacy and a love for learning and writing to enhance critical thinking and self-expression. It also includes mentoring discussions with knowledgeable adults, homework help and tutoring to address academic challenges, peer support to build community and responsibility, and educational games that promote problem-solving and teamwork. The Panda Cares Foundation: A Partner in the Mission This exciting new initiative would not be possible without the support of the Panda Cares Foundation, whose commitment to improving the lives of children and families is evident in this generous grant. By partnering with the BGCA, Panda Cares is helping create spaces that foster hope, learning, and opportunity for young people across the country. We are incredibly excited to see how the Center of Hope will continue to evolve and grow, and we are grateful to our partners at Panda Cares and BGCA for helping make this vision a reality for our Club members. Together, we are creating a brighter future for the next generation, one that is filled with hope, learning, and endless possibilities.
Making Broward County Holidays Brighter : Adopt a Family
Spreading Holiday Cheer in Broward County: Join the Adopt A Family Program The holidays are a season of generosity, joy, and togetherness. They remind us of the incredible power of giving to brighten someone else’s day. In Broward County, the Boys & Girls Club is making it easier than ever to share that joy through their Adopt A Family program. Whether it’s through donating, shopping for gifts, or sponsoring a family, this program offers meaningful ways to give back and make the holidays shine brighter for everyone involved. Adopt a Family: Brighten Broward County Holidays with a Gift Individuals, businesses, and organizations can share the joy of the holidays through our Adopt A Family program. By participating, you can help create cherished memories and support those in need in a meaningful way. Full AdoptionParticipants shop, wrap, and deliver gifts directly to the BGCBC Administrative Offices between December 1st and December 12th. This option allows for a personal touch as adopters purchase specific items for children and their families, ensuring they receive exactly what they need and desire for the season. Vicarious AdoptionFor those short on time, this option allows you to contribute funds while the BGCBC team handles shopping, wrapping, and delivery on your behalf. Suggested donations include $250 for 1-3 children or $500 for a family of four or more, though any contribution is welcome. SponsorshipBy sending a monetary donation by check, you empower BGCBC to purchase toys, clothing, and food certificates for local families. Sponsorship ensures that all families in the program receive meaningful gifts and essential supplies. Monetary DonationIf you prefer to donate directly, the online form makes it easy to give in increments of $50, $100, $250, or $500. Every dollar goes toward brightening the holidays for children and families in Broward County.Each contribution, no matter the size, creates lasting memories and eases the burden for families in the community. Other Ways to Support Broward County Holidays If you’re looking for additional ways to give back this holiday season, the Boys & Girls Club of Broward County offers flexible donation options that make it easy to contribute. Every donation, no matter the size, directly supports vital programs and services that bring joy and opportunity to local children and families. One-Time DonationsMake a difference today by giving a one-time donation of any amount. Suggested donation levels include $50, $100, $150, and $200, but any amount is greatly appreciated. Your contribution will help fund essential holiday programs and ensure that families across Broward County experience the joy of the season. Ongoing ContributionsFor those who wish to make a lasting impact, consider setting up a recurring donation. With recurring contributions, you’ll be helping the Boys & Girls Club sustain their mission to support children and families, not just during the holidays but throughout the year. By choosing to donate, you’re joining a community of generous supporters who believe in the power of giving. Together, we can make Broward County holidays brighter and create lasting change for the families who need it most. Visit the Donate Now page to get started and make a meaningful contribution today! Spreading Holiday Cheer, One Family at a TimeThe Boys & Girls Club of Broward County believes in the power of community to transform lives. By joining the Adopt A Family initiative, you’re not only brightening someone else’s holiday but also reinforcing the values of kindness, compassion, and unity that define this special time of year.Make this holiday season unforgettable for a family in need. Sign up today to bring smiles, joy, and hope to those who need it most in Broward County.
Game Gives Back – Georgia vs. Florida Football Game
Game Gives Back – Georgia vs. Florida Football Game! In sports, every touchdown, tackle, and try represents more than just points on a scoreboard. With Game Gives Back, fans have a unique opportunity to channel their competitive spirit into something even bigger—making a real difference in their communities. Launched to unite fans in meaningful support for local causes, Game Gives Back proves that, with the dedication of each team’s supporters, every contribution can have a powerful impact. Now in its second year, Game Gives Back is expanding with two exciting events: the Georgia vs. Florida football game on November 2, 2024, and a high-stakes international rugby match between England and South Africa. Through the enthusiasm of fans worldwide, this initiative transforms every cheer and donation into crucial support for local programs, particularly those dedicated to helping young people reach their full potential. In the United States, donations from the Georgia vs. Florida rivalry game will fund the State Alliances of Boys & Girls Clubs in both states. These funds directly support life-changing youth programs across Georgia and Florida, helping young people build skills, resilience, and the confidence to succeed. Join us in making a difference! Whether you’re rooting for your favorite football team or passionate about rugby, your donation can help provide essential resources for those most in need. Support Game Gives Back today and become part of a movement that proves teamwork goes beyond the field. Donate Now
September Wellness Wisdom: Suicide Prevention Awareness
September is Suicide Prevention Month This is a crucial time to shine a light on mental health and work together to prevent suicide. Suicide is complicated and may affect anyone regardless of age or background, but it is also preventable. This month, we invite you to focus on breaking down the stigmas surrounding mental health challenges, educating ourselves about the warning signs of suicide, and fostering open communication. Break Down Stigmas & Foster Open Communication Stigmas related to suicide often silence those struggling with thoughts of suicide or other mental health challenges. Encourage your family, friends, and colleagues to share their feelings and experiences without fear of judgment. By speaking openly about mental health and challenging harmful stereotypes, we can create a more supportive and understanding community. One conversation can save a life. Know the Warning Signs of Suicide Key suicide warning signs include talking about feeling hopeless or trapped, withdrawing from social activities, changes in eating or sleeping habits, extreme mood swings, using drugs or alcohol more often, expressing feelings of being a burden, giving away important possessions, and making plans or researching ways to die. If you recognize these or other signs of suicide in a friend or loved one, reach out to them with compassion and encourage them to seek professional help. Together, we can make a difference and help prevent suicide. Immediate help is available by calling or texting #988 or chatting at 988lifeline.org for 24/7 access to trained crisis counselors who help anyone experiencing mental health challenges, including thoughts of suicide, substance use crises, and emotional distress. If you would like more information or to speak to one of our Life & Resiliency Skills Coordinators about connecting to free or insurance-based mental health services, please contact Michelle White, Life & Resiliency Skills Director at mwhite@bgcbc.org or 754-300-9422. You are not alone. Reach out, speak up, and let’s create a world where everyone feels supported.
Rick Case Bikes for kids
Holidays are a festive time here @ BGCBC and we want to know do you have a bike in your garage or shed that no one is riding anymore? Rick Case Bikes for Kids will gladly take it off your hands and match it with a child who will really appreciate the set of wheels. Now in its 43rd year, the annual holiday donation drive kicks off on October 1 and will collect gently used bikes from the community until December 20. Complete details are below. Rick Case Bikes for Kids to Accept Bicycle Donations Beginning October 1Community members encouraged to bring gently used bikes to any Rick Case Automotive Group dealership in Broward County until December 20 Sleigh riding is for Santa, but bike riding is for everyone. Help to make a child’s holiday dreams come true this year by donating a gently used bicycle to Rick Case Bikes for Kids, now in its 43rd year. The community is encouraged to drop off bikes from October 1 through December 20 at the following Rick Case Automotive Group dealerships in Broward County: Rick Case Honda / 15700 Rick Case Honda Way (I-75 at Griffin Road), Davie Rick Case Acura / 875 North State Road 7 (on 441 at Sunrise), Ft. Lauderdale Rick Case Hyundai / 925 North State Road 7 (on 441 at Sunrise), Ft. Lauderdale Rick Case Hyundai / 3550 Weston Road (I-75 Auto Row), Davie Rick Case Honda Cycles / 15701 Rick Case Honda Way (I-75 at Griffin Road), Davie Rick Case Fiat, Alfa Romeo & Maserati / 3500 Weston Road (I-75 Auto Row), Davie Rick Case Volkswagen / 3520 Weston Road (1-75 Auto Row), Davie Rick Case Kia / 14500 W Sunrise Blvd, Sunrise (Sunrise at the Sawgrass Expressway) Since 1982, Rick Case Bikes for Kids has collected upwards of 120,000 gently used bicycles from the local community at their dealerships in Broward County, Florida and Atlanta, Georgia. For more than 40 years, bikes have been donated to children through the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County, Lawrenceville Boys & Girls Club in Georgia, Habitat for Humanity of Broward, Women in Distress, Broward County Public Schools and other local charitable organizations, churches, synagogues and schools. “We love to see the joy and smiles when these children are gifted a bike and the independence it provides them,” said Rita Case, President and CEO of the Rick Case Automotive Group. “For many kids, this is their first set of wheels. They will learn the rules of the road, which they’ll be able to apply when they reach driving age. Bike riding is fun, freeing and an excellent form of fitness.” The dealerships are open seven days a week. Visit RickCase.com for specific hours.BGCBC Club members have been recipients of this amazing program for many years and we thank you Rita Case/Rick Case Automotive Group for all you do for our youth.
Club Highlights – September 2024 – 2
Club Highlights – September 2024 – 2 CLUB HIGHLIGHTS BGCBC Is Future Ready! We are excited to share that BGCBC is Future Ready! We are dedicated to enhancing our impact and creating brighter futures for the young people in our community. This badge symbolizes our commitment to the goals and priorities set by Boys & Girls Clubs across the country. Together, we are making a difference! JetBlue and BGCBC “Soar With Reading” Initiative We’re thrilled to share that our Nan Knox Club members recently enjoyed a wonderful treat thanks to JetBlue’s generous support. With new books, delicious snacks, and most importantly, precious time dedicated to our club, your “Soar With Reading” initiative truly made a di erence. Academic success is at the heart of our mission, and it’s clear that it’s a priority for you as well. Thank you for your invaluable support and commitment! Rita Case (NAMAD) Lifetime Achievement Award We’re excited to shine a “Partner Highlight” on Rita Case and celebrate her remarkable achievement! Rita Case, President and CEO of Rick Case Automotive Group, has been honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers (NAMAD). This prestigious award acknowledges her lifelong contributions to the automotive industry and her unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion.We are thrilled to see Rita’s dedication and leadership recognized in this way. Thank you, Rita, for being an inspiring force in our community.Congratulations on this well-deserved accolade! STAFF RECOGNITION TEMPERANCEMOORE-CASCOEProgram Manager33 Years MICHELLE WHITELife & ResiliencySkills Director24 Years LEONCA WOODSDirector II15 Years LAKIA BROWNProgram Manager14 Years LAMARR VEALFacilities & ProductionManager12 Years NIURKA RODANESSenior Director of Talent,Benefits & Culture3 Years KIRRA SWIDERSKIEventsCoordinator2 Years JUSTIN SAMUELProgramManager1 Year Upcoming events sign up today get involved learn more
Club Highlights – September 2024
Club Highlights – September 2024 CLUB HIGHLIGHTS Stanley Cup Visit & Donation https://youtu.be/WChHFGJ1P0g Still riding high from the excitement! A huge thanks to Vladimir and wife Yana for bringing the Stanley Cup to our Clubs and their generous $10,000 donation to support our members. Wishing you an amazing season in Detroit! Off The Field – Truist x Jaylen Waddle https://youtu.be/BS_vMUy82vY?si=g-IVI1mMaxtYyOZT Miami Dolphins star Jaylen Waddle lit up our Clubs with smiles, cheers, and valuable lessons. 🙌 With his surprise visit, cool Dolphin backpacks, and important tips on saving money, Waddle and Truist truly made a difference for our kids. Big thanks to Jaylen Waddle and the Miami Dolphins for inspiring the next generation and supporting our clubs! 🙌 Your dedication to empowering children is truly making a difference. Genesis Inspiration Foundation Genesis Inspiration Foundation is thrilled to rea rm its commitment to nurturing creativity among youth by donating $20,000 to Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County. This generous contribution supports vibrant arts programs, which were highlighted at the recent Art Expo featuring impressive works by our members. With the support of our dedicated community and partners, we’re proud to help expand these essential programs, fostering creativity and con dence in the next generation of artists. Together, we’re making a lasting impact! “Genesis Inspiration Foundation is honored to support Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County and contribute to the arts programs,” said John Guastaferro, Executive Director of Genesis Inspiration Foundation. Panda Cares Center of Hope We are committed to our community and to our youth’s academic success! As part of that commitment, we are excited to open our newest space – the Panda Cares Center of Hope – a dedicated room for our young people to further their learning outside of the classroom and have fun while doing it! Thanks to Panda Cares and our local Panda Express! Visit bgca.org/pandacares to learn more about these dedicated spaces. Miami Dolphins Football UNITES: Miami Dolphins Football Unites: Connecting South Florida through the power of community and culture. Together with our partners, we’re fostering understanding, strengthening relationships, and igniting positive change. Proud to be a part of the Football UNITES journey! THANK YOU, Miami Dolphins for shaping futures with us! Upcoming events sign up today get involved learn more
Club Highlights – August 2024
Club Highlights – August 2024 CLUB HIGHLIGHTS https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvi7bWUpm4U Impact Health Sharing Awards College Scholarships in Partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County Two Impact Health Sharing scholarships were awarded to BGCBC Club members: A Florida prepaid four-year university scholarship to Marilyn, an 11-year member of BGCBC. She will attend Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, majoring in criminology. Her goal is to become a homicide detective. A one-year dormitory scholarship to Miguel, a member of BGCBC for more than 5 years. He will attend Lynn University to study aviation with the goal of becoming a commercial pilot. “Along with their parents and their family, Phil and Angela have supported Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County for over two decades,” said Matt Organ, BGCBC, Co-CEO . “They have been instrumental in transforming the futures of our youth – those who need us the most. They have earned a distinguishedplace our hearts, and in the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County Hall of Fame.” “Angela and I were delighted to meet Impact scholarship recipients Marilyn and Miguel and their proud families. We look forward to following them on their journeys,” added Phil. Building Futures Broward Pilot Program We are thrilled to reflect on another successful summer partnering with Habitat for Humanity of Broward through our Building Futures Broward Pilot Program. What an opportunity to positively impact both ourmembers’ lives and to instill in them the value of giving back. learn more Kohl’s Back to School Shopping Big thanks to Kohl’s Plantation for an amazing back-to-school shopping spree! Your support helps shape futures and foster academic success.We’re grateful for your partnership in empowering our members. Town of Davie Backpack Donation Event Last week, the Town of Davie distributed hundreds of backpacks lled with essential school supplies to the Rick & Rita Case Boys & Girls Club and the Florence DeGeorge Boys & Girls Club. This was made possible thanks to the e orts of Town of Davie Sta , Council members Michelle Whitman and Carol Hattan, and the Davie Police Athletic League. A big thank you to everyone who donated to the Town of Davie’s School Supply Drive—your generosity brought smiles to so many children’s faces! Legacy Magazine Highlight Big congratulations to our Marti Huizenga, Club Director, Tywon Jones, for being highlighted in LEGACY Magazine’s ’40 Under 40 Leaders of Today and Tomorrow!’ Your leadership and dedication inspire us all. learn more Back-To-School Help Back-to-School Anxiety: What to Watch For and How to Help Back-to-school time can be exciting, but it may also cause anxiety in some children. Causes vary and can include academic worries, social challenges, or mental health issues like ADHD and autism. Signs of anxiety may include stomachaches, headaches, irritability, sleep issues, or school refusal. Support your child by listening non-judgmentally, validating their feelings, and reassuring them. If more help is needed, encourage journaling, practice breathing exercises, and help them reconnect with friends. Our Life & Resiliency Skills Coordinators are here to assist your child with skills like stress management and emotion control. Contact your Club’s coordinator for support. Schedule: click to view Staff Recognition We want to express our deepest gratitude and heartfelt congratulations as celebrate the work anniversaries of our exceptional employees. As we honor this milestone, we acknowledge the invaluable contributions they have made to our team and the positive impact they have had on our collective mission. Thank you for doing whatever it takes to continue shaping futures! Matt OrganCo-CEO43 Years MARKES THOMASDirector I37 Years TEMPERANCEMOORE-CASCOEProgram Manager33 Years MICHELLE WHITELife & ResiliencySkills Director24 Years LAKIA BROWNProgram Manager14 Years LEONCA WOODSDirector II15 Years LAMARR VEALFacilities & ProductionManager12 Years KATHERINE MENDOZAAssistantDirector ofClub Operations4 Years CATRINA DIAZAdministrativeAssistant4 Years NIURKA RODANESSenior Director of Talent,Benefits & Culture3 Years KIRRA SWIDERSKIEvents Coordinator2 Years JUSTIN SAMUELProgram Manager1 Year CHRISTOPHER FOXXHealth & PECoordinator1 Year Upcoming events sign up today Upcoming events 10/14/2024 learn more
