The Boys & Girls Club of the Twin Cities has played a pivotal role in shaping me into the young adult I am today. Through their unwavering support and commitment to my personal growth, they provided me with a safe space to learn, explore, and discover my potential. The mentorship I received taught me valuable life skills, such as leadership, resilience, and time management, which have become the foundation of my success. The programs offered—ranging from academic support to career readiness—helped me not only stay focused on my goals but also encouraged me to dream bigger and aim higher. The relationships I built with staff and peers created a community of trust and encouragement that empowered me to overcome challenges and embrace new opportunities.
From high school to college, the Boys & Girls Club of the Twin Cities stood by my side every step of the way. They provided the guidance I needed to navigate the complexities of preparing for college, including application assistance, financial aid resources, and scholarship opportunities. Once I transitioned to college, they continued to check in and support me, reminding me of the importance of perseverance and hard work. Their belief in me never wavered, and their constant encouragement inspired me to stay motivated even during difficult times. Thanks to their influence, I’ve developed a strong sense of confidence and determination, and I’m proud to represent the values and lessons I’ve learned through this incredible organization.
As a kid I grew up in the Boys & Girls Club community in St. Paul where I was able to to participate in the sports programs and mentoring. I had a great time both engaging and learning throughout my years in the Boys & Girls Club and built long lasting relationships from it. From playing organized basketball tourneys to mentorship opportunities the Boys & Girls Club has helped shaped me into the man I am today! Now I participate in donation events as a alumni trying to stay connected as possible to this great organization and give back. I would recommend anyone to join/participate in this organization!
Grew up in the Boys & Girls Club and credit a lot of my current successes to the skills learned while attending the Boys & Girls Club. Grateful that there's a place for young people to go learn, play and grow while serving the community and dreaming big.
I first began volunteer work for the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities nearly 31 years ago. I have since been a proud Board member of the organization for many years. What attracted me to the Clubs was their mission, 'to enable all youth, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential...'. Today I continue to be inspired by how everyone from the board, leadership team, staff, and volunteers actively LIVE the BGCTC mission. We've grown to 13 clubs throughout the greater Twin Cities area supporting kids each day. The range of programs available to Club Kids is impressive, and so too is the positive impact being a Club Kid has on their lives. I encourage you to learn more about BGCTC at www.boysandgirls.org.
My experience with BGCTC has been nothing short of amazing. It goes well beyond my time serving as a Board Member and now Board Chair but in fact to when I was a youth attending a Boys & Girls in most cities I lived in as a child. It was a place my family sought out right away in most cities we lived in. Fast forward to now serving with the amazing staff here in the Mpls/St. Paul area and more importantly having the opportunity to go into clubs and engage with our wonderful kids --- well it doesn't get much better than that. The programming and continuous "leaning in" by our staff to not only serve our youth but continue to challenge them and put them in positions to be successful I truly appreciate. It's an honor to be a part of this organization.
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Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities are literally an integral piece of my life. As a youth growing up in Tampa, Florida - the clubs played a vital role for me. From having a safe space to just go and hangout, to receiving tutoring, sports instruction, mentorship etc. -- B&G was there. Now, as I serve on the Twin Cities Board, I have seen firsthand just the impact that the Twin Cities staff and clubs have had and continue to have with our youth. Shout out to all the staff, volunteers and most importantly, our kids whom we serve for making B&G Twin Cities -- the true benchmark for how the clubs should operate and exist.
I used to be a member, currently an alumni and volunteer now, and the opportunities and growth I had here have been remarkable and everlasting. From the staff members helping me advance my career skills to personal growth, it was an experience that I would not have received anywhere else. I'm grateful and happy to say that this club has helped me achieve my goals and get to where I am today!
I am very proud to say I am a Board member of The Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities (the Clubs). The Clubs live their mission everyday in focusing on helping its kids thrive in learning/growing good character & leadership, academic excellence, and healthy life styles. The Clubs are making a tremendous and consistent positive impact in the communities they serve and in the lives of the kids they support. The Clubs mission is more important than ever and they have a proven record of delivering on their promise of ensuring all Club kids graduate from high school with a plan for the future. I have been around lots of great charities/NFP's and the Clubs really differentiate themselves and make a transformational difference.
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As a Board Member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities (the Clubs), I am proud of the great work they have done and are doing everyday to help make our kids and communities better. The Clubs truly live their mission, everyday, to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. More specifically, with programing focused on the following three areas; academic success, healthy lifestyles, and good character & leadership, the Clubs are able to provide the tools for success and validate progress, using data, to truly make a difference. Spending time with the Club kids and alumni, makes it clear the mission is absolutely being achieved!
The staff in the boys and girls club are truly amazing. When I was struggling, or I needed help they were there to help me. They are helping so many students and kids, they are making a difference in their lives.
It was great to volunteer with Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities. The organization was great to work with and we were able to spend an afternoon helping the kids build vision boards. It was awesome to work with the kids to discuss their long-term goals of going to college, buying houses and more! I would highly recommend volunteering with BGCTC!
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There is some really great work being done at the Clubs. Leadership at the Jerry Gamble Club plays an instrumental role in community building on the Northside. Club staff across all locations show a deep passion and commitment to serving youth across the Twin Cities.
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Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities is a beacon of inspiration and support for the youth. With an unwavering commitment, they foster a community that nurtures growth and success. This organization stands out for its dedication to not just the school-age period but in guiding young individuals into adulthood. By providing a safe space for learning and personal development, they empower these young minds to aspire towards their best selves. It's an incredible organization that deeply cares for the well-being of the youth, striving to create a positive impact that extends beyond the classroom.
BGCTC is doing important work to upift the lives of youth in their community and prepare them for succesful adult lives. Their programming is impactful, closing academic gaps and teaching new skills, but also fun for Club members- and provided free of charge! I would recommend BGCTC to anyone.
From academics to healthy living to workforce development, BGCTC does great work for youth in the Twin Cities. They provide opportunities for youth to thrive and live successful lives free of cost. You can truly see the impact they have when talking to staff and Club alumni.
Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities continues to impact the lives of children in our communities in a positive way. The anecdotes and the underlying data both prove that BGCTC is fulfilling it's mission of ensuring that every club kid graduates with a plan for the future. It is energizing to be part of such a purpose driven organization.
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Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities is a cutting-edge nonprofit organization, enabling young people to thrive as productive, caring, responsible citizens. I am impressed with the heart and spirit I've seen in both the staff and young people who are involved in the multiple programs available - from academic programs to healthy lifestyles and leadership. I truly believe Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities is helping shape our future in a positive way. I see this in the opportunities being offered and the young people saying yes to stretching their limits and unleashing the best version of themselves.
I'm on the Associate Board for the BGCTC, and I am constantly amazed at the amazing work this organization and their staff do to support kids in our community!
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I've served on the associate board for the BGC-TC for over two years, and I'm constantly amazed by the great work this organization does for the youth of our community.
A phenomenal philanthropy with strong direct impact on K-12 in need. Organization makes a huge difference in people's lives and our community overall!
My corporate team had an amazing time volunteering at one of the Twin Cities Boys & Girls Clubs. It was a very well-planned day with multiple activities to engage with the kids. Everyone raved about how much fun it was!
Boys and girls clubs of the Twin Cities is an incredible organization! They go above and beyond for the kids in the community. I have personally heard from many club members about how their club has changed the trajectory of their lives for the better. The staff are incredible and really supportive of the kids. The Twin Cities is lucky to have this team in the community!
The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities is an amazing organization. The effect they have on both individuals as well as the community through programming, advocacy, and education leaves a lasting imprint on everyone it touches, from the youth they work with to the volunteers that help. The BGC changes lives for the better.
Great organization with an active associate board of young professionals that engages in a number of fundraising and volunteer activities throughout the year! Very impressed by the way BGCTC pivoted during the pandemic to continue their support of young people when schools shut down and learning went remote.
At HandsOn Twin Cities we love our partnership with Boys & Girls Club of the Twin Cities. Their team is fantastic and always goes above and beyond to provide exceptional volunteer experiences for individuals and teams. We encourage all to get involved and help ensure bright futures for youth in the Twin Cities!
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities plays a critical role within the Twin Cities community addressing disparities by engaging our youth through an excellent set of programs both inside and outside of school. I am particularly impressed by their STEM programming, and ability to provide access to hands-on skills building and education for hundreds of youth preparing them for high-demand career opportunities post-high school graduation. BGCTC also has an excellent team in place to deliver on these critical programs and are a pleasure to work with!
The Boys and Girls Club does fantastic work. I drive by the St. Paul club on my way home from work, and all the kids going in or playing outside seem to be having so much fun and are excited to be there.
I've volunteered with the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities for almost a decade & I keep coming back. You can see the direct impact you're making on the lives of youth in our community. Great communication with staff, plenty of opportunities to volunteer in the Clubs & with fundraising events, and happy kids - can't beat it!
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I've worked with the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities for the past 7 years. I started as a weekly volunteer, teaching dance to elementary-aged kids, then joined the Associate Board eventually becoming the AB President. I've always loved interacting with our youth - they bring me so much joy & hope for our future. The staff & other volunteers I've met during my tenure with the Clubs are so passionate about improving the lives of young people in our community; it really does make you want to do as much as you can for the organization. I've never been more impressed than during the last year and a half - between the pandemic and the murder of George Floyd only blocks from one of our Clubs, the youth and staff have been challenged in ways none of us could have imagined. The way the Clubs have continued to be there for their families is remarkable. I'm so proud to work with the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities and encourage anyone who is interested to check them out!
I have had the privilege to serve on the Board of Directors for the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities for many years. I can tell you firsthand that the work this team of caring professionals does each day is changing the lives of young people in our community. The level of dedication and caring the staff provides in unmatched in anything I have ever seen. The attached picture is from a group of teens on the Eastside working together to put on a Holiday event for their community, really powerful to see these young people in action!
After spending some time at the Southside location, I quickly realized the amount of effort the staff put forth on a daily basis to give the kids the best experience possible. It is truly an incredible place!
Worked with the Boys and Girls Club Twin Cities to do a corporate volunteer event at Camp. It was great for some of my team and the larger Polaris Team to get involved and help with camp. The staff was great to work with. We also partcipated in a top Golf event and it was great to hear from some of the active club members. This is a great organization providing opportunity and creating equity within our Twin Cities community.
The boys & girls clubs of the twin cities have helped countless numbers of kids in our community graduate from high school and provide a safe place for our youth to thrive. I would highly recommend the clubs for any kids!
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I would give Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities 10 stars if I could! As a volunteer and member of the BGCTC Associate Board I've witnessed firsthand the Clubs' impact on the lives our youth in the Twin Cities. The programming the Clubs offer provides the Club kids with life skills, education, and character traits that I wish our school systems would teach every kid as they mature. Not to mention the simple fact that the Clubs provide a safe place for our youth to go to after school and during the summer months. There are things that these kids do that most adults in their 30s and 40s would not do or would be scared to do (public speaking in front of 500 people for instance!), all because BGCTC motivates these kids to seek their full potential and strive for what they believe in. Also, because the Club staff tells the Club kids that they can achieve it if they put in the effort and make the right choices. There is no doubt that the Clubs change lives - they help our youth graduate from high school, get good paying jobs, go to college, and realize that they accomplish whatever they set their minds to. OUTSTANDING WORK BEING DONE HERE!
I've served on the Associate Board of the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities for over four years and fully support the mission and leadership of this organization. The Clubs give kids not only a safe physical space to be after school and in the summer, but also form a support system for the kids in several aspects of life - academic, social, health, etc. From providing academic support to career readiness to literacy support to sports teams to food security, the Clubs reach every aspect of the kids' lives that can present risks and challenges to try to reach a goal of equity in the community. It's an honor to be involved and I hope others get a chance to see the amazing work being done at these Clubs!
The BGCTC is amazing because its staff is amazing. They care so much and they have a deep understanding on how to effectively engage with youths in our underserved communities in the twin cities. The organization provides an environment that is safe and welcoming. The programs are thoughtfully designed to hit on core basic academics as well as expanding the youths’ perspectives on their potentials. The staff thoughtfully balances learning and fun to reinforce accountability and discipline to help youths learn and grow. I also find the BGCTC to be a learning organization. It develops and track metrics. It seeks to improve and evolve as an organization. It is agile as needs change to better serve the community. Go visit and find out for yourself. I am confident you will be impressed and touched.
The mission of the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities is inspiring, and every time I am at the Clubs or with them at an event, I can feel the positive impact they are making on the youth in our communities. I am grateful for all of the great teachers, staff, and leaders that work tirelessly to give the kids a great experience and help them feel like family. I'm proud to be a part of such a great organization. - Nick Gust
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Thank you to the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities on all the work they do each day. They work tirelessly for our youth to make a positive impact on their lives today and support them in their goals for the future. I’ve experienced the great sense of community in our Twins Cities Clubs, and that is enabling our youth, especially those who need us most, to thrive and reach their potential. Today, more than ever, our community needs the Clubs to bring the essential support and programming the kids need. Thank you to the Clubs for all your great and hard work – our communities truly appreciate it.
I worked at Southside for two years and think about my time there often. The branch director had a wonderful community approach and really worked to mentor all of his staff. Administration for the organization, however, has a long way to go. They have difficulty balancing chasing grant money that is necessary to stay open and doing what is truely best for families. I think at times they push for uniformity between clubs which is not equitable as it takes away from addressing specific community and family needs. They also have a large amount of staff of color at the direct service level with very few in admin, which even as a white person I find problematic. I also think they have issues letting go of higher up staff who are problematic. BGC does a lot for kids and families and as a staff there I felt proud to contribute, but they still have a long way to go.
Especially proud to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities and the great work they do for the youth in our community! Had a chance awhile back to spend some time volunteering on-site in their St. Paul location - the energy and enthusiasm of the youth and the leaders was truly inspirational. The work of the Boys & Girls Clubs is an especially bright light in the midst of these challenging times! Shine on!
The Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities has developed a fantastic set of programs all focused on helping children live healthier lives through a variety of health and wellness programs – from sports and physical activity to building healthy relationships to nutritional education. The garden initiative – with a focus on farm to table – is a vital program for our youth not only for the 155,000 nutritious meals provided throughout the year but it also teaches important life skills and learnings including healthy recipes, kitchen safety and cooking. We are thrilled to support these vital programs that continue to “grow” with more garden build projects planned for Clubs throughout the Twin Cities.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities is an organization committed to the future of our children, and equipped to meet the challenges our society faces today. Their programs address the deepening disparities in our country through educating and uniting the lives of children in need through hands-on mentoring and social-emotional development activities, promoting equitable opportunities for all children and youth to survive and thrive despite challenging circumstances. This is an organization that is at the forefront of the solution to the country's current problems - has been, is, and will continue to be!
I am very proud to say I am a Board member of The Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities (the Clubs). The Clubs live their mission everyday in focusing on helping its kids thrive in learning/growing good character & leadership, academic excellence, and healthy life styles. The Clubs are making a tremendous and consistent positive impact in the communities they serve and in the lives of the kids they support. The Clubs mission is more important than ever and they have a proven record of delivering on their promise of ensuring all Club kids graduate from high school with a plan for the future.
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As a Board Member of the Clubs I am extremely proud of the great work Club staff are doing to help Twin Cities youth excel in all that they do, including continually increasing reading, writing, and math skills - which directly translates into high graduation rates and post secondary advancement. What a pleasure it is to be involved in such an impactful and important charity.
The Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities has been a huge part of my life since I was just a kid! I played football for the West Side Boosters, and participated in many activities. The clubs taught me leadership and perspective. They are doing amazing work there, and the employees are passionate about their jobs!
The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities is an invaluable resource in our community serving kids and families in a holistic way that supports them in every aspect of their lives. The staff are amazing and I'm so proud to be a part of this incredible organization on so many levels.
I joined the BGCTC administrative team with a moderate level of nonprofit experience, and what I have already seen in my relatively short time here has left me nothing short of impressed. From the ground up, this organization retains a deep integrity and its staff are truly passionate about building opportunity for youth in under-served communities. Youth programs at Clubs are carefully built to foster a love of learning, social-emotional intelligence, and highlight the importance of working to better one's community. This is a thoroughly worthy organization for families, kids, volunteers, and donors alike!
I worked for this organization from 2013 - 2015 and it was the best job I ever had. The staff there are incredible, caring individuals who go above and beyond for their kids. And they are their kids. The kids are treated like family. Everyone works together towards positively affecting the youth in the Clubs. No one should ever hesitate to give to this organization. Your money is well spent here.
I love my work with the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities. They have very impactful programming in the inner city. Additionally, they are great stewards of the funds that get donated by my organization.
I joined this organization almost 18 years ago, not fully understanding the impact we had on our kids in the Twin Cities Clubs. The one thing I was clearly committed to was finding an organization that was focused on kids and one that could impact their future. Today I am truly convinced beyond any doubt that our clubs and our staff have changed lives. And the reason for that is very simple. We provide "best in class programs" along with adult mentorship by our staff. I am not referring to "swim and gym", but specifically designed programs adapted to the specific age group of our kids. We are having a positive impact on the 800+ kids who walk through the doors of our clubs everyday. I am constantly inspired by our kids and our staff. I am more committed than ever to this organization, not because of what we say we do, but the actual outcomes and impact we have on our kids. We also have an incredibly committed group of board members that support our kids and staff.
Over the course of the past fourteen years as a weekly volunteer with Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities, I have had the opportunity to witness the positive impact this organization and staff have had on the youth of our community. As an organization, the strength and impact of their programming, coupled with authentic, caring and humble staff, they are a beacon for youth and their families. With an organization mission to provide a safe, positive, and fun environment for youth, they have demonstrated their commitment to being a responsive and engaged community partner. I am very proud to spend time volunteering each week at an organization where serving the youth comes first.
When growing up in Minneapolis by 11th and Franklin, the Boys Club was my safe place. I spent countless hours at the club playing sports, learning about the wood shop playing checkers and singing in the Boys Club Choir which was some of my fondest memories. I remember in great detail the night we sang at the Premier of the Sound of Music at the Mann theater in downtown Minneapolis. (Still know all the lyrics) My experiences there had a profound effect on my life and gave me a true appreciation of all who hung out there as kids and young adults. It was an experience that I believe would greatly benefit all kids as they grow up.
Sincerely
Dan Gustafson
Burnsville City Council
And former alum of the Blaisdale Club in Minneapolis.
I am an alumnus of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities. I was a club kid for 8 years, and I still go back and volunteer at my local Boys & Girls Club. The Boys & Girls Club has saved my life and made me the man that I am today. I have learned leadership, communication, and personal skills from the Boys & Girls Club that I still use today. I am in college because of the mentors I had at the club, they were and still are my roles models, my go-to people, and most importantly the family that I never imagine I would have. I am a former Keystone leadership program president, and because I got the opportunity to serve as a leader at such young age in the clubs, it has encouraged me to become a leader everywhere I go. I am currently in my 3rd year of college, and I would've made it this far without the support and the unconditional love of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities.
-Lamah Bility
I have been on the Board of the Clubs for over 20 years. I have seen hundreds of young lives changed for the better by the Clubs and their amazing staff that works with the Club kids every day. In the last two to three years, I have seen the Clubs dramatically improve the effectiveness of their programming, especially in the areas of literacy and teen pathways. What I like best about the Clubs is the high standard that they hold the kids to. Those high expectations result in high accomplishments for the Club kids.
The high rating reflects the outstanding work and commitment towards making a meaningful and long lasting impact on kids, increasing their opportunities and ultimately changing their lives.
The B&G Clubs of the Twin Cities does a remarkable work reaching out and aligning the support of the broader community, including the business community of the Twin Cities towards its goals
My volunteer work with the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities started about 4 years ago. Every year I continue with them I become even more and more passionate and impressed with what their mission is and their amazing work provides for our youth. By trade, I am a teacher and know the extremely high need for organizations like this one for our youth. I have had the opportunity to serve on their young professional's board, The Associate Board, to find ways to fundraise, volunteer, and make connections for and with our youth. The staff at the BGCTC are absolutely incredible, their passion, knowledge, drive, and love for their students are amazing. Not only do I get to witness first hand the positive impact this non-profit has on our youth, but it has also had such an incredible impact on me. The clubs love to show community members what they are all about if you ever get the chance set up a time to tour a club, volunteer with the youth, or talk with one of their many incredible employees.
I have been doing work with the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities for over five years and continue to be more and more impressed with the impact they have on the youth who need the support in our community. I have the pleasure of working with a group of young professionals that is organized by BGCTC and get together monthly to come up with ways to help impact our youth, whether it be through fundraising, volunteerism, etc. The Clubs are always looking for new ways and ideas to keep improving the lives of these kids, while maybe most importantly providing a safe environment. In the end, the impact on me personally and professionally has been unbelievable and I only hope I can make as big of an impact on the Clubs but continuing to support this great cause.