The Loughran Boys & Girls Club is a cornerstone of South Columbia Heights. It is my neighbor.
The Club is in need of some neighborly attention. A few weeks ago I blogged about the rise in crime in this part of the city and how I felt a need to be a better neighbor.
Tonight I went over (with a couple others from my building) to meet the Director and learn about how I can volunteer there. She was fantastic. Committed and talented. Wanting to make a difference for the boys and girls and for the neighborhood. She has some great ideas for strengthening the Club.
We talked about volunteer opportunities (there are many) in their 5 programmatic areas; Character & Leadership, Education & Career, Health & Lifestyle, the Arts, and Sports & fitness.
Much of what the Director said tonight was insightful and caring. Two things in particular stuck with me…
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She said these kids need hope. They need to know that there is something for them beyond Columbia Heights.
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She also said that what gets the kids to take the leap of stepping inside the Club is not the gym or the programs or the snacks. What gets them in the door is the relationships they make with the people inside the Club – including the volunteers.
I am excited to start spending some with the kids at the Club.
You're such a sweet guy ....
Posted by: Anthony | September 24, 2008 at 02:44 AM
You are to be congratulated for your willingness to add to the common good. Here's hoping you inspire others in the area to do the same.
Posted by: Mike | September 11, 2008 at 06:20 AM