Boys & Girls Club of Garfield Summer Fun!!!

As athletes from countries all over the world gather in London for the 2012 Summer Olympics and celebrate the opening of an amazing few weeks.  I sit and think about the appropriate way to celebrate all that the Boys & Girls Clubs of Garfield has accomplished during the Summer of 2012.  How many of our kids will aspire to be the next great decathlete, track star, swimmer or soccer star.  I am just pleased to know that the over 300 kids that are participating in our summer programs have those dreams and know that anything is possible.

It is our responsibility as a Club and community to ensure that our kids are given the right guidance and support to make sure that they have the opportunities needed, and wanted to achieve greatness.  This is why our youth development strategy is so important.  When planning Club programs and services we always begin with our Mission to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.  By reaching children at an early age and providing positive activities and encouragement, our Club provides a compelling alternative to youth crime, gang membership, drugs, and other negative influences that effect our youth today.

Our Club programs promote the development of young people by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, influence and belonging. When this strategy is fully implemented, self-esteem is enhanced and an environment is created which helps our members achieve their full potential. Additionally, our members learn to: 

• Enjoy their interests 

• Nurture their talents 

• Dissolve their prejudices 

• Express their personality

• Develop friendships 

• Build self esteem 

• Contribute to society 

• Achieve personal success

The Boys & Girls Club of Garfield is making a significant Impact on children in Garfield and many surrounding communities.  That Impact is felt in the areas of Academic Success, Healthy Living, Character & Citizenship.  How do we ensure that we have this impact?  By following our Formula For Impact!  

Examples of the great fun programs and activities, safe positive environment, supportive relationships followed by opportunities and recognition are available everyday at the Boys & Girls Club of Garfield.  Some of the highlights from this summer include:

• Over 300 children at two different summer camp locations

• 32 Children and 3 Staff attending a teambuilding and leadership sleep away summer camp with Vacamas Programs for Youth, Camp Top of the Pines at Harriman State Park.

• 40 Kids attending the CC Sabathia Pro Camps Baseball Camp

• Up to 100 children receiving the opportunity to swim everyday

• Positive interaction between great staff and kids that has included fun games, great performances, wonderful art work, and continued learning throughout the summer months.

• Weekly trips that combine learning with fun and exciting experiences.

Yes, all of this happens at the Boys & Girls Club of Garfield.  Wow, do we ever have a reason to celebrate!  For more information about Club programs and services or how you can help please visit www.bgcgarfield.org or call 973-478-7662.  Get involved and join us to ensure that Great Futures Start Here!!

Reminder to all that registration for our 2012 Golf Outing is available now!!! See information below!

Paul Casey

CEO, Boys & Girls Club of Garfield