As we reflect on 2024, we at Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities (BGCTC) are filled with gratitude for the incredible growth of our organization over the past year, including opening three new Club locations. By expanding our reach, we are bringing vital programs and resources to more youth than ever before.
This year we are also grateful for the launch of Pathways2Careers, a comprehensive tool designed to guide our teens through their career exploration journeys, helping them envision their futures and providing actionable steps to achieve their goals. In partnership with local companies, we’ve taken significant strides in our efforts to intentionally introduce youth to career opportunities. By offering skill-building experiences that go beyond traditional career days, we’re ensuring that our youth not only explore different industries but also develop the skills needed to pursue these opportunities with confidence.
Additionally, 2024 has been a standout year for youth-driven initiatives through our Think, Learn, Create (TLC) program. Club youth have taken the lead in designing community projects and advocating for causes they are passionate about. A special highlight was the opportunity for four Club teens to travel to Washington, D.C., where they were able to meet with legislators to advocate for increased mental health resources for teens across the nation.
As we look ahead, we invite you to GIVE IN GRATITUDE now through December 31, 2024, to help us continue this momentum. Al and Kathy Lenzmeier, long-time champions of our work, are offering a dollar-for-dollar match on all contributions up to $50,000 through the end of the year, doubling the impact of your generosity!
Your donation to Give in Gratitude TODAY will support critical needs for young people throughout the year!
$25: Hygiene kits for one Club member and their family
$50: Winter coat for one Club member
$100: Fuel for transportation to offsite activities for one Club site
$500: Supplies for one Teen Leadership workshop
$1,000: Mental health supports for young people
Read more Club stories of Gratitude!
Gratitude for Volunteers – Meet Hunter!
What keeps you showing up? I think that the thing that keeps me showing up is the ability to foster community and make an impact. Growing up I was in a community that was missing a central space where kids could be heard and make an impact and contributing to that...
Gratitude for Staff – Meet Mr. O
Meet Olutimilehin Olusanya, “Mr. O” Career Pathways Facilitator at Jerry Gamble Boys & Girls Club What is your “why”? I do this work because I truly enjoy working with young people. I am a Boys & Girls Club Alum and want to offer support to youth to better...
The Premiere of Indigenous State of Mind: A Mental Health Awareness Film
On November 21, the Little Earth Boys & Girls Club premiered Indigenous State of Mind: A Mental Health Awareness Film, a powerful short film created by Club members and staff. The film sheds light on the importance of mental health awareness, amplifies the voices...
For more information about ways to give and get involved, please contact
Grace Bettendorf at [email protected] or 651-200-4102.