Glen Cove Boys & Girls Club September Youth of the Month

Ashley and Chelsea stared off the new school year strong with their enthusiasm and interest in new programs and activities offered at the Club this fall.

Ashley V., 7, is a third grader attending Landing Elementary School. Excelling in ELA, Ashley prides herself on her spelling skills. She enjoys reading books, learning about new and exciting things from the pages within. In the future, Ashley envisions herself becoming either a doctor or a veterinarian. “I like helping people, but I love animals!” says Ashley, sharing that she has been instrumental in helping her family take care of and raise a puppy for the past two years. Having attended the Club for two years, Ashely has developed a meaningful connection with her Group Leader Mr. Jahrae (O’Neill), sharing that Jahrae’s knack for saying funny things, his ability to make her laugh and smile, and the nicknames he creates for her and other members makes her look forward to attending the Club each day after school. Ashley enjoys her time at the Club, particularly reading with staff in the Learning Center and the fun, on-your-feet activities in the Dance Room, also citing the Club for encouraging her to try new things, like cooking, through its Cooking Up Energy program. “I am thankful for the Club and I am really happy when I am here,” says Ashley. “I love my friends, the staff, and the fun games. I would miss out on these things if I was just at home!”

Chelsea P., 14, is a ninth grader attending Robert M. Finley Middle School. Chelsea enjoys both math and social studies. She began attending the Club two years ago, and says that she attends almost regularly because she enjoys interacting with staff, memorable Club field trips, the STEM program, and knowing there is a place for her to complete her homework. “I have no siblings,” says Chelsea, “but the staff and the friends I have made here have become like my family and my siblings. Here I always feel like I have people to talk to.” Chelsea most enjoys talking with Teen Program Director Ms. Breanna (Townsell) about school, college opportunities, career ideas and suggestions, her interests and hobbies, and life in general, saying that she is comfortable and at ease here. “I connect to Ms. Breanna, and even when we talk about serious topics it’s fun.” Chelsea credits the Club for opening her up to new experiences and allowing her the opportunity to try different things, reflecting positively on a field trip that gave her the chance to try archery for the first time. “I love the Club because this place has really helped me open up, and allows me to be myself. This place makes me feel positive, helpful, and welcome.”

Congratulations to Ashley and Chelsea, GCBGC Youth of the Month for September.