Empowering Futures: A Guide to Scholarships for Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County Members
January 31, 2024 Empowering Futures: A Guide to Scholarships for Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County Members In the pursuit of empowering the youth to achieve their goals beyond high school, Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County (BGCBC) offers a diverse range of scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support traditional college education as well as vocational and trade certifications. Eligibility requirements of a minimum of 2 years of membership and attendance are required. Let’s explore the exciting scholarship opportunities available to BGCBC members. BGCBC Scholarship: The BGCBC Scholarship serves as the gateway to multiple scholarships, including the prestigious NSU Rita and Rita and Rick Case Endowment Scholarship. This full-tuition scholarship aims to remove financial barriers for deserving students, enabling them to pursue higher education seamlessly. Additionally, the Nan Knox Boys & Girls Club Scholarship, offering either $1000 or $500 per year, further broadens the scope of financial assistance for academic pursuits. Rick Case Vocational Scholarship: For those inclined towards vocational or trade programs, the Rick Case Vocational Scholarship App is a game-changer. This scholarship covers the full cost of vocational or trade programs at institutions like Sheridan Tech or McFatter, providing an opportunity for skill development and career advancement. Class A CDL Scholarship: Recognizing the demand for skilled commercial drivers, BGCBC offers a full scholarship for a 4-week Commercial Driving License (CDL) course at Broward College. This scholarship opens doors to a rewarding career in the transportation industry and aligns with the evolving job market. External Scholarships: ** **The FAU Kelly/Strul Emerging Scholars Program is not one a BGCBC scholarship**, but we are encouraging our Club members to apply. Deadline to apply is February 1st FAU Kelly/Strul Emerging Scholars Program: Tailored for prospective Florida Atlantic University (FAU) students who are residents of Florida and first-generation college students with demonstrated financial need, the FAU Kelly/Strul Emerging Scholars Program covers housing, tuition, fees, books, and meals. This comprehensive scholarship ensures that financial constraints do not hinder the pursuit of higher education at FAU. Apply | The Kelly/Strul Emerging Scholars Program (fau.edu) Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County is committed to nurturing the dreams and aspirations of its members. Through a variety of scholarships, ranging from traditional college pathways to vocational and trade certifications, BGCBC empowers youth to overcome financial barriers and reach their full potential. Aspiring scholars within the BGCBC community have a multitude of opportunities to embark on their educational journeys, contributing to a brighter and more promising future. FOR MORE INFO: Contact your Club Director or the Career & Education team at scholarships@bgcbc.org or text at 954-590-0778.
10 BACK TO SCHOOL TIPS FROM THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF BROWARD COUNTY
As summer draws to a close, it’s time for students to start preparing for another school year! To help you make a smooth transition and ensure a successful academic year, we’ve compiled a list of tips for going back to school, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. 1. ESTABLISH A ROUTINE Setting a daily routine is key to a successful transition. Start by gradually adjusting your sleeping pattern to match school hours, ensuring you get enough rest for optimum performance. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule throughout the week, even on weekends, to improve your focus and productivity. 2. PLAN AHEAD Organization is essential to thriving academically. Invest in a planner or utilize digital tools to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and extracurricular activities. Break down larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks to avoid last-minute stress. An organized approach helps reduce anxiety and improves productivity. Click here to find your School and download your Supply List. 3. CREATE A STUDY SPACE Designate a quiet, well-lit area in your home specifically for studying and homework. This space will allow you to concentrate without distractions. Customize it with motivational posters, comfortable seating, and necessary supplies, making it a place you look forward to spending time in. 4. FUEL YOUR BODY Eating a nutritious diet is crucial for maintaining energy and mental clarity. Start your day with a balanced breakfast, including proteins, whole grains, and fruits. Pack healthy snacks like nuts, fruits, and granola bars to keep your energy levels stable throughout the day. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugary drinks, as they can lead to energy crashes and affect your concentration. 5. STAY HYDRATED Proper hydration enhances cognitive function and overall well-being. Aim to drink at least 8 cups (64 ounces) of water daily. Keep a water bottle with you at school or work, ensuring you can stay hydrated wherever you go. 6. MAKE TIME FOR EXERCISE Regular physical activity not only benefits your physical health but also your mental well-being. Engage in activities you enjoy, such as walking, jogging, cycling, or participating in team sports. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Our clubs have multiple sports and activities to help stay active! 7. MANAGE STRESS School can be demanding, but learning to manage stress is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Practice stress-reducing techniques like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga. Take regular breaks from studying to engage in activities that help you relax, such as listening to music, reading, or spending time outdoors. 8. BUILD A SUPPORT SYSTEM Surrounding yourself with supportive individuals can greatly alleviate stress and enhance your academic experience. Cultivate meaningful connections with classmates, teachers, and mentors who can provide guidance, motivation, and support throughout the school year. Join a local Boy’s & Girls Club to stay connected and build lasting relationships. 9. LIMIT SCREEN TIME Excessive screen time can negatively impact focus and sleep patterns. Set boundaries on the amount of time you spend on electronic devices, including smartphones and computers. Allocate specific periods for studying, socializing, and leisure activities, ensuring a healthy balance. 10. CARE FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH Pay attention to your mental well-being and seek help when needed. School can be overwhelming, so it’s important to recognize signs of stress, anxiety, or depression. Reach out to school counselors, therapists, or support groups for assistance. Take time to relax, engage in hobbies, and nurture your passions. As you prepare to embark on another academic journey, remember that maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential for your overall well-being and success. By adopting these tips for going back to school, you can create a positive foundation that will not only benefit your academic pursuits but also your personal growth and happiness. Wishing you a prosperous and fulfilling school year!
HOW TO CHOOSE A CAREER PATH
Choosing a career path is an exhilarating journey filled with possibilities and opportunities. As a teenager standing at the threshold of your future, it’s essential to recognize that this decision holds significant weight, shaping the course of your life for many years to come. The path you choose will intertwine with your aspirations, passions, and dreams, influencing your personal growth, financial stability, and overall happiness. Therefore, it’s paramount to approach this decision with thoughtfulness and deliberation, allowing yourself the necessary time to explore, reflect, and make the right choice. By embarking on this journey with patience and a mindful approach, you can pave the way to a future that aligns with your unique talents, ambitions, and values, ultimately setting the stage for a fulfilling and successful career. Remember, the power to shape your destiny lies in your hands, and we are here to support and guide you every step of the way. In this blog post, we will discuss how to choose a career path. We will cover topics such as: By following the tips in this blog post, you can choose a career path that is right for you. What are Your Interests and Skills? The first step in choosing a career path is to think about your interests and skills. What are you good at? What do you enjoy doing?Your interests and skills can give you a good starting point for your career search. For example, if you are interested in computers and you are good at problem-solving, then a career in computer science might be a good fit for you. What are Your Values and Goals? In addition to your interests and skills, it’s also important to consider your values and goals when choosing a career path. What is important to you in a job? Do you want to make a difference in the world? Do you want to work in a certain industry?Your values and goals can help you narrow down your options and choose a career that is aligned with what is important to you. What Kind of Work Environment Do You Want? Another important factor to consider when choosing a career path is the type of work environment you want. Do you want to work in an office? Do you want to work outdoors? Do you want to work independently or as part of a team?Think about what kind of work environment would be most conducive to your productivity and happiness. This will help you narrow down your options and choose a career that is a good fit for you. What are the Job Prospects for Your Chosen Field? It’s also important to research the job prospects for your chosen field. How many jobs are available? What are the salary ranges? What are the educational requirements?By researching the job prospects, you can get a better idea of whether or not your chosen field is a good fit for you. How to Choose a Career Path Now that you know what factors to consider when choosing a career path, here are some tips to help you get started: Take some career assessments: There are many career assessments available online and in libraries. These assessments can help you identify your interests, skills, and values. Talk to people in different fields: Talk to people who are working in different fields to get their insights. Ask them about their job satisfaction, the challenges they face, and the rewards of their work. Shadow someone in your chosen field: If you can, shadow someone who is working in your chosen field. This will give you a firsthand look at what the job entails and whether or not it’s a good fit for you. Do some internships: Internships are a great way to get experience in your chosen field. They can also help you make connections and network with people who can help you land a job. Choosing a career path is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following the tips in this blog post, you can choose a career path that is right for you. Remember, it’s okay to change your mind. If you choose a career path and it’s not a good fit, you can always change course. The important thing is to find a career that you are passionate about and that you enjoy.
UNLOCKING BRIGHT FUTURES: BROWARD COUNTY’S TEEN PROGRAMS EMPOWERING COLLEGE AND CAREER SUCCESS
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County takes pride in offering comprehensive programs to support the academic and career development of teenagers in the area. One of the standout initiatives is the College & Career Corner, designed to equip teen club members with the necessary skills and resources for their future endeavors. SAT PREP PROGRAM Recognizing the importance of standardized testing, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County provides a free 60-hour SAT Prep course. Created in collaboration with American Heritage Schools, this program ensures that students receive a thorough review of foundational concepts tested on the SAT. Additionally, valuable test-taking strategies are taught to maximize each student’s scoring potential. COLLEGE PREP The Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County understands that successful college entry requires preparation and guidance. The College Advising team at American Heritage Schools offers a specialized course to club members, providing insights on navigating the college application process. From goal-setting to crafting college essays and exploring scholarships and financial aid, students gain the knowledge and skills needed for a successful college journey. COLLEGE TOURS To broaden horizons and foster informed decision-making, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County organizes county-wide and state-wide college tours. Club members have the opportunity to visit esteemed institutions such as Florida Atlantic University, the University of Florida, Florida State University, Broward College, and Nova Southeastern University. CAREER DAYS The Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County recognizes the importance of introducing teens to various career paths. The Generals Club Construction Program exposes club members to the construction trades through monthly showcases, highlighting careers in crane operation, plumbing, roofing, general construction, and project management. Additionally, the Annual Career Day at American Heritage School offers a platform for exploring diverse professions ranging from accounting and entrepreneurship to aviation, medicine, and real estate. SCHOLARSHIPS The Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County provides substantial financial support to high school graduates through over $50,000 in scholarships. These scholarships, including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County “Nan Knox” Scholarship, Gary Rotella Stars Prepaid Scholarship, and the Marti Huizenga Broward College Scholarship, help deserving students pursue their higher education goals. For more information about any of these college prep and workforce development opportunities, please reach out to Anith Benjamin, Director of Teen Initiatives, at scholarships@bgcbc.org. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County is committed to empowering teens in Broward County, Florida, and helping teens thrive academically and professionally.
EXPLORE, ENGAGE, AND EXCEL: A SUMMER FULL OF OPPORTUNITIES WITH THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF BROWARD COUNTY
Welcome to a summer packed full of excitement, adventure, and learning with The Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County (BGCBC). Our summer programs are tailor-made to fuel your child’s curiosity, enhance their social skills, and ignite personal growth, all while making lifelong memories and friends. A SUMMER TO REMEMBER Every summer, our BGCBC club members, aged 6 to 18, immerse themselves in an array of activities designed to cultivate their talents and broaden their horizons. From the thrill of sports to the creativity of arts and crafts, from melodious music sessions to enlightening career exposure, and from intriguing outdoor adventures to stimulating academic support, our summer programs have it all. Each day is marked by dedicated time for reading and other learning activities to ensure that our members continue their academic journey even during the holidays. In fact, it’s not just about maintaining, but enhancing their knowledge, particularly in core subjects such as mathematics, reading enrichment, and science. UNIQUE OPPORTUNITIES & EXPERIENCES Every BGCBC summer program is unique, providing opportunities to engage with pioneering technology, like virtual reality, and special activities like swimming and aviation programs. Who knows, your child might discover their passion for culinary arts in our cooking classes! We also understand the value of real-world experiences. Our summer internship programs offer the opportunity for our young members to potentially work with prestigious partnerships like Bank of America and Habitat for Humanity. These internships offer valuable insights into potential careers and develop practical skills. We further enhance career exploration with our company Career Day Tours. These tours give our young members a glimpse into the professional world, sparking their imagination about future career possibilities. FITNESS, CULTURE & SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT Physical fitness and sports are integral parts of our summer programs, ensuring that members stay active and healthy. But it’s not just about the physical aspect. We’re equally committed to fostering social skills and cultural awareness. Our cultural arts activities are designed to celebrate diversity and foster appreciation for different forms of artistic expression. Meanwhile, our emphasis on social skills helps our members learn to interact effectively and harmoniously with others. FUN, LEARNING, AND EXCURSIONS! To keep the excitement soaring, we arrange field trips, inviting special guest speakers to inspire our members with their experiences and success stories. These fun-filled excursions and enlightening talks open new doors of understanding and inspiration for our young members. YOUR CHILD’S SAFETY AND COMFORT IS OUR PRIORITY At BGCBC, we are staffed by trained and experienced professionals committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment. Parents can rest assured, knowing that their children are not just enjoying their summer but are also in a secure, supportive, and growth-oriented space. Even lunch and snacks are taken care of! We provide wholesome meals every day to keep our members energized and ready for all the fun activities. AFFORDABLE ACCESS TO A REMARKABLE SUMMER All these incredible summer opportunities are available for just $15 for the entire summer. Yes, you read that right! This fee includes all activities, with no additional costs. Our summer programs run from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, providing full-day engagement for our members and peace of mind for parents. This summer, gift your child the opportunity to explore, engage, and excel with The Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County. Join us, and let’s create a summer to remember together!
GRAB-AND-GO MEALS FOR CLUB MEMBERS
Dear Parents: To help curb the impact our Club closures will have on our community, Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County will begin providing grab-and-go meals to Club members at each Boys & Girls Club in Broward County beginning on Monday, March 23rd. Meal service will be conducted Monday-Friday 4-6 and Saturday 12-2 WHILE DAILY SUPPLIES LAST. In order for your children to receive their meals, they must present their Boys & Girls Club membership card upon arrival. Please note that our Clubs will not be open during the meal service, and kids will not be permitted to stay on property once they have received their meals. Only one meal per Club member will be distributed. Thank you for your support during this challenging time and we look forward to serving you. Chris GentileChief Development OfficerBoys & Girls Clubs of Broward County
14TH ANNUAL BOCA RATON CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE
Presented by Mercedes-Benz and AutoNation, the 14th Annual Boca Raton Concours d’Elegance was held February 7th – 9th in Boca Raton. Each year the Boca Raton Concours d’Elegance grows, bringing together new supporters, introducing exciting new event components and showcasing even more impressive classic automobiles and motorcycles. This year was no different as auto enthusiasts celebrated with Marque of the Year recipient, Duesenberg on their 100th Year Anniversary. The weekend festivities kicked-off with the Hangar Party at Atlantic Aviation at the Boca Raton Airport. Guests perused an impressive selection of cars, motorcycles and private jets, while enjoying an open bar and food from over 20 South Florida restaurants. Guests also had the chance to shop with many local and national vendors! New this year was the Mecum Gallery Exposition, featuring millions of dollars in collector cars and an Automotive Fine Arts Society Show! This exposition was held at the Mizner Center at the Boca Raton Resort & Club and was open Saturday to the public and Sunday for Concours ticketed guests. The excitement continued on Saturday with the Grand Gala Dinner, Live Auction & Comedy Show featuring comedian Billy Gardell, of Bob Hearts Abishola fame. Guests enjoyed the presentation of the National Automotive Achievement Lifetime Award to Scott Keogh, Volkswagen of America President and CEO, the National Racing Lifetime Achievement Award to Helio Castroneves, three-time Indianapolis 500 Winner and the National Dealership Lifetime Achievement Award to William Lehman Jr., Founder of the Lehman Dealership Enterprises. Additionally this year, Colin Brown, Chairman of the Board of JM Family Enterprises was inducted into the Dream Makers Society The event concluded on Sunday with an automotive showcase like no other, featuring over 200 cars and motorcycles from an array of time periods. Auto enthusiasts had the chance to view several examples of the Marque of the Year, Duesenberg and the Feature of the Year, Auburn Cord Duesenberg Clubs, as well as a Special Display Class: “30 Under 30.” An expert panel of judges who selected the finest vintage, antique, and classic vehicles based on period, presentation and style included the following: Chief Judge Dr. Paul Sable; Lindsey Greene Barrett, President of the ACD Club; Diane Fitzgerald, President, RPM Foundation at America’s Automotive Trust and Diane Parker, Vice President of the Historic Vehicle Association. Grand Marshal Wayne Carini, host of Chasing Classic Cars joined the group for another stellar year along with the longtime Master of Ceremonies Bill Rothermel, who was joined this year by Brad Phillips from Hagerty Insurance, who together handled all announcements during the ceremony. bgcbc.org
YOY CELEBRATION DINNER
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County hosted its first Youth of the Year finals celebration on January 23, at the Westin Hotel in Fort Lauderdale. This event celebrated the Youth of the Year winners from each of our Clubs across the county and highlighted the five Youth of the Year finalists: Amber G. – Jim & Jan Moran ClubNijly S. – Thomas D. Stephanis Club – FinalistBria B. – Lauderhill ClubShiva M. – Leo Goodwin Teen Center – FinalistJeannah F. – Nan Knox Club – FinalistAniya O. – Dr. Harold Reitman Club Willie H. – Lester H. White ClubArmand P. – Rick & Rita Case ClubAlexis H. – Florence DeGeorge Club – FinalistAllon L. – Marti Huizenga Club – FinalistZiomora S. – Carver Ranches Club The finalists had the opportunity to work on their final speeches with Rosh Lowe, from MicDrop, and Neki Mohan, from Channel 10 news, before presenting them in front of our judges. Emma A., from the Marti Huizenga Club, began the night singing “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars. Lloyd Braitwaithe, from Dale Carnegie, presented graduation certificates to all 22 Youth of the Year participants for participating in the Dale Carnegie High Impact Presentations in December 2019. Each member received 1.6 Continuing Education Units for participating in the Dale Carnegie presentations. Jeannah F., from the Nan Knox Club was presented with the Dale Carnegie Highest Achievement award. The finalists presented their speeches in front of the judges, their family, BGCBC’s Board Members and staff. As the judges began deliberating, Raynaldine N., from the Lauderhill Unit, performed an original spoken word poem. Alexus M., 2019 BGCBC Youth of the Year, joined Brian Quail, BGCBC President/CEO in announcing the 2020 Youth of the Year winner and runner-up. Nijly S., from the Thomas D. Stephanis Club, was selected as the 2020 Youth of the Year runner-up and was awarded a $500 scholarship. Jeannah F., from the Nan Knox Club, was selected as the 2020 BGCBC Youth of the Year and received a $1,000 scholarship. Jeannah will represent the Boys & Girls Club of Broward County at the state competition in April 2020. Each of the eleven Youth of the Year winners from each Club received a $100 gift card. Thank you to all of our youth who participated in the competition. Thank you to our judges Angelika Schlanger, Annie Mecias, Bilal Little, John Clidas and Brian Quail, who graciously gave their time to participate in this exciting program. Thank you to the family member’s, BGCBC Board Members and staff for celebrating our youth across Broward County. A special thank you goes out to the Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation and UPS for their support in sponsoring this event. Click on the link for the video: https://youtu.be/meTEM5pogBU
ANNUAL BGCBC ADOPT-A-FAMILY
Once again, our annual Adopt-A-Family was a huge success for our Club members and their families. Through this wonderful program, we were able to identify 165 families and their 331 kids collectively, who needed some extra help to make Christmas a little bit brighter this year. Club members received books, games, sports gear, bikes, gift cards and a variety of other gifts and toys. We would like to thank all the individuals, company and charity donors that generously supported this program. We appreciate your time and treasure to help make this Christmas a memorable one for our Club members and their families. Some of our donors include Office Depot, Best Buy, Coco-Cola, JC Penny, Lamborghini of Broward, Capital One, Five Guys, Cox Media Group, Planned Giving Council of Broward, Diamonds by Raymond Lee, Team National, Rick Case Automotive Group, Waste Connections, Channing Crowder Toy Drive, John Knox Village, Kids Footlocker, Kohl’s, Ed Morse Automotive Group, Jazwaress, Donnell Bennet Jr., and the Suits, Stilettos and Lipstick Foundation. In addition, we wish to thank our generous BGCBC Board Members who donated to this program as well.
AMERICAN RED CROSS RECOGNIZES BGCBC LIFEGUARD WITH LIFESAVING AWARD
On December 6, The American Red Cross Broward County Chapter presented BGCBC Lifeguard Victoria Hill with a Red Cross Lifesaving Award for Professional Responders during a ceremony at the Carver Ranches Boys & Girls Club in West Park. Red Cross staff and volunteers gathered to recognize and honor Victoria for her quick and exceptional actions. Victoria was recognized for her use of Red Cross training and skills to save a young man’s life at the Levine Slaughter Club over the summer. On June 21, Victoria witnessed this young man become distressed in the water before becoming fully submerged. Victoria quickly activated the Emergency Acton Plan (EAP) before entering the pool and determining that he was unresponsive. While 911 was called, Victoria extracted the young man from the water, placed him on the pool deck and started to perform CPR. After a few cycles of chest compressions, the young man’s pulse returned and Emergency Medical Responders arrived and transported the young man to the hospital for further treatment. This award is given by the Red Cross to individuals or group of individuals who save or sustain a life as part of their employment or while on duty and had an obligation to respond using skills learned in a Red Cross Training Services course. Upon returning to the Club, the young man was hesitant to get back in the pool. With support and encouragement from his family and Club staff, he enrolled in the swim program and obtained his Level 2 swim certification. He now loves swimming and has the confidence to be in the water safely. George Coneo, Boys & Girls Club Aquatic Director, Patrick Beason, American Red Cross Aquatics, Paula Prendergast, Executive Director American Red Cross, Victoria Hill, Cynthia Imperato, American Red Cross Board of Director Chair.
