Every year, Medford Design-Build contributes to the Greater Fort Worth location of The Boys and Girls Clubs of America. We are happy to help make a difference in the lives of the youth of our local community. This organization is also very close to our owner’s heart, as it played a big role in his childhood. We’d like to feature The Boys & Girls Clubs of America in our community spotlight blog this month; here is some information about their mission and history via www.bgca.org:
Mission
To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.
Vision
Provide a world-class Club Experience that assures success is within reach of every young person who enters our doors, with all members on track to graduate from high school with a plan for the future, demonstrating good character and citizenship, and living a healthy lifestyle.
History
Boys & Girls Clubs of America had its beginnings in 1860 with three women in Hartford, Connecticut – Mary Goodwin, Alice Goodwin and Elizabeth Hammersley. Believing that boys who roamed the streets should have a positive alternative, they organized the first Club. With character development as the cornerstone of the experience, the Club focused on capturing boys interests, improving their behavior and increasing their personal expectations and goals. A cause was born.
History Highlights
In 1906, several Boys Clubs decided to affiliate. The Federated Boys Clubs in Boston was formed with 53 member organizations – this marked the start of a nationwide Movement and our national organization.
In 1931, the Boys Club Federation of America became Boys Clubs of America.
In 1956, Boys Clubs of America celebrated its 50th anniversary and received a U.S. Congressional Charter.
To recognize the fact that girls are a part of our cause, the national organization’s name was changed to Boys & Girls Clubs of America in 1990. Accordingly, Congress amended and renewed our charter.
2006 marked the Centennial year of Boys & Girls Clubs of America, as we celebrated 100 years of providing hope and opportunity to young people across the country.
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Fort Worth (as well as the other branches around DFW) host specific fundraising events throughout the year, as posted on their website. There are also volunteer and donation opportunities and even career openings for those that would really like to get involved! Visit the website for more information, and remember, even a small donation can make a big difference in the lives of our community’s youth!
Warm Regards,
The Medford Design-Build Team