Boys & Girls Club of Dane County

At the Boys & Girls Club of Dane County, we inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us the most, to realize their full potential to become productive, responsible and caring adults. We help inspire kids to dream and build the skills to achieve their dreams through quality programs in five core areas: character & leadership development, education and career development, health & life skills, the arts, and sports, fitness & recreation. The Club is open Monday through Saturday to ensure that young people have a safe and positive place to go. Each day, the lives of our members are influenced through working with trustworthy adults, certified teachers and dedicated mentors.

To improved the well-being of youth, families, and communities through innovation and collaboration,

Goal One: Establish and refine innovative programming models that ensure high-quality youth development and drive positive outcomes.

Goal Two: Be leaders in continuous quality improvement by measuring outcomes to deepen impact for youth, families, and communities.

Goal Three: Increase organizational capabilities by building strong, engaged staff and volunteers including our Board and committees.

In August of 2021 our full leadership staff attended a week of training with tenured Harvard Business School professor, Dr. Applegate. The training included leadership skills, workplace dynamics, team building strategies, and pitching entrepreneurial ideas. All full-time staff are required to attend 40 hours of professional development training annually, and all part-time staff must have at least 20 hours of professional development training each year.

As the end of year nears, we reflect on the many reasons to be grateful in anticipation of a new year, 2022. This year has been a hard one. Yet, we have demonstrated how we can overcome challenges through the power of togetherness. Together, we have provided over 1,000 COVID-19 vaccinations to underserved communities to ensure equity in access. Together, we have provided 140 youth access to summer employment opportunities, earning an income for themselves and to help support their families. Together, we have embarked on the largest initiative in the history of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Dane County with the McKenzie Regional Workforce Center, to make sure youth have options to skilled trades careers pathways, equal to our college career pathway. Through YOUR generosity, we: • Supported over 4,000 youth and families, through education & career development, health & wellness, character & leadership, sports & recreation, and family engagement enrichment programming. • Provided over 5,000 community meals when food insecurity was at its highest • Led the coordination of the 1st African American statue being erected on any state capitol grounds, honoring the legacy of Vel Phillips. We have accomplished so much together, and there is still much work to do. We thank you for your support in this year. It’s because of YOU, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of young people and families. We remain committed to our mission - “to inspire and empower all young people, especially those who need us the most”. As we continue to move our mission forward, we know we have a greater impact, together.