FEATURING DATA FROM 01/01/22-12/31/22
This Summer a group of teens representing the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley (BGCNV) as part of its leadership program, Keystone attended the nation’s largest teen led event. Known as the Keystone Conference, this three day event was held in Dallas Texas with representation from more than 500 Boys & Girls Clubs bringing together thousands of Boys and Girls Clubs teen leaders and mentors from across the nation and overseas for a weekend of empowerment, inspiration, and leadership development. The conference features a variety of workshops, community service projects, inspirational speakers, and immersive experiences specific to teens and how they can advocate on behalf of their peers and serve their individual communities.
Leaders, Professionals, Innovators… These are not words we typically attach to the teenage experience and yet for this group of Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley Teens, it is. This opportunity allowed them to meet with peers and leaders from across the country to discuss issues like emotional wellness, personal and gender identity, cultural awareness and healthy relationships. They also had the opportunity to meet with career professionals from corporations like the NBA, Vans, Toyota, MTV, and Charles Schwab to advocate on behalf of their communities and share priorities and topics that are important to them.
This year’s theme, “Thrive! Be Heard! And Be You!” was echoed by the recordbreaking 1,500 attendees who continued to chant “thrive, thrive, thrive” over the course of the conference. This was amplified by keynote speakers, Katelyn Ohashi who became a viral sensation with her gymnastic dance routines and Ben Nemtin a TV and Film Producer responsible for hits like Letterkenny, The Buried Life, and the Greatest Party Story Ever. They opened the conference with stories that demonstrated the importance of mindset and using it to will your personal narrative from strive to thrive. These messages resonated deeply with our teens who often feel that their work is undervalued or unseen. But change through service is measured in hundreds of “little” actions. When we consider them individually, they are drop in the bucket, but collectively, they are a rising tide.
The final night of the conference was reserved for an awards presentation with a total of six Clubs receiving awards including Keystone of the Year, Advisor of the Year, Outstanding Service to Club, Leadership Development Award, and Character and Leadership. Our Napa Valley teens took the stage representing The Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley which was awarded the 2023 National Keystone Program of the Year award for its work in Career preparation. As our teens and Club staff stood on stage accepting an award with a standing ovation and cheers from a crowd of peers, they saw their dedication and commitment actualized in a moment they had not sought but were honored to accept.
Keystone President and 12-year Club member Dareydy Rojas shared her feelings after accepting the award, “Winning this award meant the world to us as leaders and hearing Club 1515’s name called reminded me of all The Club alumni who came before us, it felt like they were up there with us.”
Club Alumni and Teen Services Coordinator Julie Silva shared similar feelings, “This was a full circle moment for me, in one way it was great way to finish the year but in another it looks to be a great starting point of inspiration for the future.”
The teens of The Boys and Girls Clubs of Napa Valley left the National Keystone Conference with more than a National award, they returned home energized and eager to more deeply invest in their community. Change is a shared burden and they are eager to make their small actions a rising tide of that uplifts the Napa Valley community.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley (the Club) and the Napa Valley Unified School District (NVUSD) have forged a groundbreaking partnership for this Fall. On Thursday, June 22, The NVUSD’s Board of Trustees authorized the creation of a major partnership with The Club to expand programmatic and enrichment services to Napa area teens. This collaboration aims to extend crucial support and enrichment opportunities to high school students attending all Napa area high schools. The alliance underscores the commitment to empower youth and provide them with a platform for growth, development, and success. With many under the impression that the Clubs only serve little kids, some readers may be surprised by this news. In actuality, the Club, which has been operating since the 1950s, has been serving Teens since its inception.
The Club has long been recognized for their invaluable contributions to the youth of the Napa Valley community. From academic support, workforce development, wellness initiatives to leadership development, the Clubs offer a comprehensive range of activities that cater exclusively to teenagers. Through programs like “Ready. Set. Work.” a workforce development initiative sponsored by Kaiser Permanente, the Club hosts monthly panel discussions through which industry leaders have been able to talk directly with teens about their own professional journeys. “We’ve hosted local professionals like wine makers, plumbers, marketing professionals, auto mechanics, and business owners who have offered employment opportunities and even internships to our teens,” said Joshua Sergeson, the Club’s Director of Teen Services. “but we’ve also had executives and administrators from tech companies, hedge funds, and national brands like Pottery Barn, Kaiser, and Accel.” Through Programs like “Keystone,” the Club creates opportunities for teens to volunteer in, or work on, service projects that elevate the Napa Valley community. Keystone has done everything from helping to collect coats for the unhoused, creek clean ups, and planting trees for earth day. In fact, the Club’s Keystone program received national recognition from Boys & Girls Clubs of America in 2021 for its outreach work. When it comes to teens, though, the Club is best known, for its Youth of the Year program. The program involves weeks of essay writing, interviewing, and public speaking which culminates in an opportunity for teens to tell their stories in a public format. This year’s event, which was sponsored by JAM Cellars, teens spoke in front of an audience of 300 people in a TED talk inspired format at the Uptown Theater. “Each year at the Club's Youth of the Year event, I have been inspired by the stories shared by high school students about the impact of the Club's teen programs. The student stories illuminate the lifechanging work happening at the Boys and Girls Club. Our teenage students from across the district could benefit from participation,” said Pat Andry Jennings, NVUSD Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services. That sentiment clearly resonates with the Club which now, in partnership with NVUSD, will offer expanded enrollment and enrichment opportunities to teens from all NVUSD middle school and high school locations at the Napa Clubhouse.
This new partnership with NVUSD will expand the Club’s focus on teen services by creating a formal funding agreement in the form of $178,000 and establishing a structured and measurable partnership between the two agencies. What does this mean for local teens? More services and more opportunities in a dedicated facility but accessible at no cost to teens or their families.
It is worth noting that this agreement is only part of a growing collaboration between the Club and NVUSD and that the Club’s expansions in the wake of the pandemic are largely the result of this partnership. In 2019, the last normal year on record prior to the pandemic, 2,000 children were served by the Club in the cities of Napa and American Canyon. In 2022, the most recent reportable year, that number had jumped to well over 5,000 youth between the ages of 5 and 18. “We’re doing a lot,” said the Club’s Executive Director Greg Bouillerce, “but our expansion and services would not be possible without strong partners like NVUSD.” In May of 2023, the NVUSD School Board of Trustees authorized the continuation of an agreement that will allow the Club to access more than $3,700,000 in state Expanded Learning Opportunities Program funding to offer K-6 services to qualifying students.
The impact of these programs has been immediate and resoundingly positive. A recent parent survey conducted in the winter of 2022 indicated that an overwhelming majority of parents (more than 98%) felt that the Club was safe, important to their family's stability & success, and a vital resource for their children. With one parent saying “It’s important for me and my child. It’s important to my child for his socialization with others, homework help, and fun activities. For me it's important because I have a secure place for my child after school which allows me to work knowing he’s ok in a place he loves.”
These services are a critical part of the Club’s strategy, but they are buttressed by a philosophy of equity. Despite the massive expansions both in scope and depth, the Club works to keep its fees low with the maximum after school fee of $200/month- roughly half that of similar programs. Even so, these programs directly target those who need them most with over 70% of children attending at no charge because of this continued access to state funding. The impact of this collaboration is also being reflected in classrooms “You can definitely see a difference between the kids who do and don't attend Club programs,” said one of the many surveyed teachers who partnered with Clubs to provide wrap around support for students.
“We’re excited to see what the future holds,” the Club’s Executive Director Greg Bouillerce said. “We’re eager to introduce new and innovative approaches that will help promote a more equitable but elevated member experience for every child and teen in our care. We believe firmly that if youth are placed in engaging environments and those places are staffed with incredible mentors, that great futures are the result and we’re blessed to have NVUSD as an avid partner in this pursuit.”
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley celebrated a significant milestone in August, marking a transformative moment for the American Canyon community. With a generous allocation of $1.1 million from the State of California, championed by Senator Bill Dodd, the remaining construction loan for the American Canyon Clubhouse was successfully paid off. This substantial investment bolstered the Club's mission of providing an engaging and nurturing environment for the community's youth, helping them grow into responsible and productive citizens. The achievement was celebrated with a public check presentation ceremony at the American Canyon Clubhouse on August 12.
The completion of the new American Canyon Clubhouse on Benton Way in 2018 had presented unforeseen construction cost overruns, resulting in a daunting financial challenge for the Boys & Girls Club. Despite facing an additional $1.4 million in debt, the organization remained unwavering in its commitment to enriching the lives of countless youth at the American Canyon Clubhouse, offering vital programs at little to no cost to families who depend on them. A grateful parent from American Canyon expressed, "The Club is a huge blessing for my family. I can work, and I don't have to worry about my child. I know he is safe and cared for."
Investments of this magnitude carry significant implications for the well-being and development of the community. By supporting organizations like the Boys & Girls Club, the state and Napa Valley community made a profound investment in the future of American Canyon and its children. The impact of such investments was substantial:
Empowering Youth: The Clubhouse serves as a haven for youth to flourish academically, emotionally, and socially. This substantial allocation allowed the enhancement of programs and expansion of facilities, reaching a broader demographic of youth.
Strengthening Communities: The Boys & Girls Club fosters lasting friendships, mentorship opportunities, and a sense of belonging, thus creating a stronger, more cohesive community.
Curbing Juvenile Delinquency: Constructive after-school activities significantly reduce the likelihood of delinquent behaviors. With improved resources and expanded activities, the Clubhouse played a pivotal role in guiding children towards a positive and promising future.
Supporting Working Families: The Club addresses the crucial need for affordable and reliable child care, allowing parents to pursue their careers with confidence.
This tremendous gift and the work it supports stands as a testament to what can be achieved when government agencies, communities, and nonprofit organizations come together with a shared commitment to improving the lives of our youth and our community as a whole. It exemplifies the power of collaboration in making a lasting impact. We are so thankful for Senator Dodds support and for the meaningful impact that support will mean for the American Canyon Community for years to come!
In a world where educational success and community support go hand in hand, the collaboration between the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley (BGCNV) and the Napa Valley Unified School District (NVUSD) stands out as a powerful example of how healthy partnerships can make a significant impact. This synergy between BGCNV and NVUSD not only benefits the families and students directly involved but also contributes to the broader educational and social landscape of our community.
The relationship between BGCNV and NVUSD is a testament to the strength of community partnerships. By working together, these organizations are able to extend support beyond the classroom and into the lives of students and their families. This collaboration ensures that children receive not only academic support but also emotional and social enrichment, creating a holistic approach to their development. “My mother always said you can’t love people in slices, and that’s exactly how this partnership benefits Napa kids. By addressing their needs holistically we’re making them better students but more than this we’re making them better people,” says Greg Bouillerce, CEO of the Club.
One of the most compelling examples of this impact is reflected in the 2023 CAASPP state testing data. Children who attended the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley for 75 days or more tested 8 percentage points higher in English Language Arts (ELA) and 10 percentage points higher in math compared to their peers. This statistic underscores the effectiveness of the after-school programs offered by BGCNV and their positive influence on academic achievement.
The availability of accessible and low-cost after-school care is crucial for many families in our community. For working parents, these programs provide a safe and structured environment for their children after school hours. This not only alleviates the burden of finding reliable child care but also ensures that children have access to enriching activities that support their academic and personal growth.
NVUSD’s commitment to offering affordable after-school programs aligns with this need. Over the past three years, investments from various industries, including expanded funding and teen services contracts, have significantly enhanced BGCNV’s ability to provide these essential services. These investments have allowed the organization to expand its offerings and reach more families, demonstrating a substantial commitment to supporting the community.
When low-cost after-school care is accessible, it yields numerous benefits for both families and schools. For families, it means peace of mind knowing that their children are engaged in productive in supervised activities. This security enables parents to focus on their jobs and other responsibilities without the constant worry of child care.
For schools, the presence of after-school programs like those provided by BGCNV can lead to improved student outcomes. Students who participate in these programs often show enhanced academic performance, as evidenced by the CAASPP data. Additionally, these programs can help address behavioral issues and provide support for students who may need extra assistance outside of regular school hours.
The Napa Valley Unified School District, like many educational institutions, faces challenges related to budget constraints and declining enrollment. These issues can strain resources and impact the quality of education and support services available to students. By partnering with organizations like BGCNV, NVUSD partially mitigates some of these challenges through shared resources and collaborative programs.
The support provided by BGCNV helps to alleviate some of the financial pressures on the district. By offering low-cost after-school care and enrichment programs, BGCNV contributes to the overall well-being and academic success of students, indirectly supporting the district’s goals and helping to ensure that resources are used effectively. Economics in Napa are a primary driver for families who either depart the district or think twice about moving to Napa. High living costs, including housing and daily expenses, make it challenging for many families to sustain their lifestyles in the area. This economic strain compounds the declining enrollment crisis faced by NVUSD, as families seek more affordable living conditions elsewhere.
Access to low-cost child care, such as the programs offered by BGCNV, is a vital part of keeping families in NVUSD and Napa as a whole. These programs provide a significant relief to family budgets, allowing parents to continue working while ensuring their children are cared for in a supportive environment. By alleviating some of the financial burdens through affordable after-school care, we help make Napa a more viable place for families to live and thrive.
The collaboration between BGCNV and NVUSD exemplifies a shared vision for student success and community well-being. By working together, these organizations are able to leverage their respective strengths to create a supportive environment that benefits everyone involved. This partnership highlights the importance of community collaboration in addressing the complex needs of students and families.
As we look to the future, it is essential to continue fostering these valuable relationships and exploring new ways to enhance our collective impact. The ongoing support from industry investments and the dedication of both BGCNV and NVUSD to their mission will be crucial in driving further success and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.
The vibrant spirit of creativity within the Napa Valley community was brightly displayed on a national stage as a masterpiece produced by local Club 1515 Teen Center artist's secured a prestigious accolade. Teens from the Boys & Girls Club of Napa Valley's Club 1515 Teen Center recently completed a project in partnership with Blake Barrios, a talented artist with deep ties to our region. The final product of that collaboration, a large 7'x4' painting titled "HeArt of the Dragon" recently achieved an extraordinary feat by clinching third place in the teen visual art category at the National Fine Arts Competition at Boys & Girls Clubs of America Headquarters in Atlanta Ga.
What began as a collaborative masterpiece, placing local teen artists on a national stage, has now been transformed into an opportunity for those artists to support and elevate local programs offered by the Club. The winning artwork, a captivating depiction of a koi dragon, was produced exclusively by Club teens and is now featured as a label for a limited release of Rebellium Wines, the proceeds of which will go to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley. " I didn't really know what to expect when I visited the Club on that first day, but it became clear really quickly that this was going to be huge. The teens were ambitious, committed, and determined. While it was fun for me to share technique and
process, I was inspired to watch how they put those skills into practice."
For the Boys & Girls Club of Napa Valley, this achievement marks a significant milestone in their ongoing mission to foster creativity and talent among local youth. The organization, known for its dedication to empowering young minds, has blossomed in large part due to expanded support from the Napa Valley Unified School District. "The district got a taste of who we were and what we wanted to do for teens by coming to our Youth of the Year events and watching videos of the magic that was happening within our walls. Last June, they committed to an unrestricted investment of $180,000 and that support has given us bandwidth to engage with people like Blake but also created opportunities for us to expand offerings like our e-sports and leadership programs; all while serving more teens than ever before," said Greg Bouillerce, the Club's Executive Director. Indeed, the journey from local artists to nationally recognized talent is a testament to the power of collaboration, mentorship, and community support.
The HeArt of the Dragon, which is now on display at Color Theory, who donated supplies to help with the project, in downtown Napa, will move to Jessup Cellars where it will be prominently featured for the Boys & Girls Clubs Fine Arts Show. The Boys & Girls Clubs Fine Arts Show, an exciting free and public event, will take place on May 16th from 5pm to 6PM with the artwork left on display at Jessup Cellars through June.
The Boys & Girls Clubs Fine Arts Show is more than just an art display. It is a celebration of the hard work and dedication that our communities youth have put into their artwork, and it provides an opportunity for children to showcase their skills and talent to a wider audience.
If selected, children’s artwork from this local event will go on to compete at a national level. This provides members with an exciting opportunity to compete against other talented artists from across the country, and to receive recognition for their hard work and talent.
In a world where artistic expression often goes unnoticed or underappreciated, this recognition from Boys & Girls Clubs of America is cause for celebration not just for the teens, but for the entire community.
On Wednesday February 7th, seven youth finalists from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley shared their stories of bravery and hope to a devoted audience at the Uptown Theatre in downtown Napa. Every year, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley recognizes outstanding youth at an annual event called Youth of the Year. “This is one of the most anticipated nights of the year for our organization,” says Jaime Gallegos, Director of Operations for the Club. “It’s a unique opportunity for us to celebrate our incredible youth and a chance for people to see firsthand how the Club impacts our local community.”
Each year, thousands of teens across the nation participate in local, state, and regional Youth of the Year events. In Napa and American Canyon, each nominee spends weeks preparing to tell their story on stage but there’s a whole lot more than storytelling behind the program. Finalists draft a series of essays on the topics of their Club experience, what matters to them most, and overcoming obstacles. They interview with staff, mentors, and judges. They contribute hours of community services and collect letters of recommendation from people they respect. At the February 7th event, our teen finalists had the opportunity to share their Club journey.
The event opened with a keynote by Abel Guillen, Deputy Superintendent of Schools for the California Department of Education and former Youth of the Year at the Columbia Park
Boys & Girls Club in San Francisco. Abel spoke to his experience and what the Club meant to him.
“I was surrounded by friends, many of whom took a different and darker path. I went to Berkeley, but when I initially applied, I thought that Berkeley was an east coast school. That’s how far away I was from the college experience. But the Club continued to push me and because of their support, I went to Berkeley on a scholarship and that led me to a career with the California Department of Education. We’re here to wrap our arms, collectively, around these kids and teens to help them reach their full potential.”
“My first day at the Club was impactful, because it's where I began to understand what it meant to look to the future rather than to dwell on the past,” recalled Melody Kondor.
“I felt like an outsider, but the Club changed all that. The staff created a place of belonging for me outside of school.” agreed Audrey Aliga.
For Edmundo Gonzalez “the Club became an open door to a level playing field. It became my way forward and a place I will always call home.”
“Every day you're greeted by a smile from the staff. It was a happy and safe place after a long day at school.” recalled Madilynn Davis.
“I got to participate in so many art projects that my hands ached by the end of the day, yet, I couldn't wait for the opportunity to come back for more,” continued Mikayla Grogan.
For Laizah Coronado, “The Club was the spark I needed to become the hero of my own story. They helped me find my shine, my skills, and gave me opportunities to take ownership of life I wanted to live.”
“The Club became my source of comfort and empowerment, a space where I could be myself, and for the first time, feel truly seen and heard through the transformative power of the Club.” said William Perez.
“That's the magic of this place,” concluded Greg Bouillerce, the Club’s Executive Director. “It's built on the idea that if you meet kids where they are and push them to be more, that great futures are the result. We've seen what that magic can do and what it can mean for the kids and teens who grow within our walls. That is the power of the Club experience. Not quite school, not quite home, but still more than the sum of its parts…”
Congratulations to all seven candidates and a special thanks to everyone who made the event special. You can learn more about this event, including the full event video, at www.begreatnv.org/events/yoy.
Children form the backbone of the community, learning its stated values as they grow, increasingly understanding which are aligned and which are contrary based on their own experiences, and one day passing that mix down to their own children.
For the health of the larger community, according to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley's executive director Greg Bouillerce, there needs to be a place where young people not only learn the value of kindness, collaboration and community, but see those older than they practice it in real time. What we show young people, he said, is reflected back on us later on. Providing them with fun experiences, teaching valuable skills and, most importantly, building community is vital.
“Support of the Boys & Girls Club really boils down to one question: What kind of community do you want to build?” said Bouillerce. “By providing a nurturing environment where children witness and participate in acts of kindness and collaboration, we are not just shaping individuals; we are molding the collective character of Napa Valley.”
Joel Navarro and his twin brother Eric initially got involved with the Club as mentors, helping middle schoolers with their homework as freshmen at Vintage High School. Eric soon became a regular at the Club, not only volunteering but also taking part in programs designed for teenagers. Joel, now 22, said he started coming about a year later.
“When I started going to the Teen Center, I really wasn’t in a good place, mentally or emotionally,” he said. “But they were there for my good days and my bad days, giving me a second home, a safe space.”
Navarro graduated from San Francisco State last May with a bachelor’s degree in communications and business management, but he says a couple of incidents made him rethink what he wanted to do with his life. First, he was diagnosed with lymphoma, and while he’s recovered, “going through that experience made me think about life in a different way.”
And second, he witnessed a car crash this past March near SFSU. Instinctively, he said, he ran toward the car to help, and was able to assist getting the passenger out. They had to wait for firefighters to rescue the driver, who was pinned inside by the force of the crash.
“I was covered in blood, but unfazed,” said Navarro. ‘If anything, I was able to perform really well in stressful situations.”
Because of those two things, he said he decided in July to return to school to get a second bachelor’s degree in nursing. He’s currently taking some of the prerequisites at Napa Valley College and is looking to return to his alma mater to complete that degree.
Navarro who won the club’s Youth of the Year competition during his senior year at Napa High said his time at the Boys & Girls Clubs helped him develop his compassion for others and honed his confidence.
The Club has been around for a long time, founded as the Boys Club of Napa in 1953. (It
was opened to girls in 1981.) Much of its funding comes from California as well as other governmental sources. The nonprofit also gets significant support from E. & J. Gallo, the Napa Valley Vintners, Kaiser Permanente, and many other business and sponsors.
“The club is in a really interesting time in its history,” said Bouillerce, who was named executive director in August 2020. “We’re getting more grants, but less local giving.” But, he says, some of the most impactful things his group does are funded by individual donors- events like the Halloween carnival, back-to-school parties, and trips to the Meritage Resort and Spa.
“There is a perspective that there are two Napas,” he said. “The first is the one visitors see, and the second is the Napa we all exist in.”
Doing things like ice skating at the Meritage or taking a trip on the Wine Train are part of the “aspirational Napa” that a lot of club members — due to family finances — would be unlikely to experience otherwise.
“These are all shared experiences that allow us to build deep relationships with our kids,” said Bouillerce. “What drives success as an adult has a lot to do with the ability to build strong and lasting relationships, not just with peers but with mentors as well.”
During the previous fiscal year, which went from July 2022 to June 2023, the Club raised about $110,000 in unrestricted funds. Though the current year is about half over, the amount raised currently is about $30,000. Getting additional funds, he said, will help tremendously toward keeping these vital programs growing and thriving. And demand is growing. Bouillerce said the Club served a bit more than 2,000 kids during its 2019-20 fiscal year, a figure that jumped to about 5,300 in 2022-23. He said he expects that figure to get as high as 6,000 by this June.
“Supporting the Boys & Girls Club isn't just an act of philanthropy; it is a conscious decision to craft a community that values compassion, inclusivity, and mutual support,” he said. “The dividends of this investment aren't measured in financial terms but in the immeasurable impact on the lives of children who will, in turn, become the stewards of the Napa Valley community.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has cast a long shadow over the lives of young people, creating unprecedented challenges and exacerbating existing mental health issues. As we navigate the post-pandemic world, the importance of mental health support for youth has never been more critical. At the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley, we recognize the profound impact that mental health has on our members' overall well-being and future success. Our commitment to fostering an environment where mental health is a priority is unwavering, and we employ a range of programs and strategies to support our youth in this crucial area.
The pandemic significantly disrupted the lives of children and adolescents, leading to increased levels of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Social isolation, remote learning, and the uncertainty of the pandemic have contributed to a mental health crisis among young people. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the proportion of emergency department visits related to mental health issues among adolescents aged 12-17 increased by 31% in 2020 compared to the previous year. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for effective mental health support.
At the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley, we understand that addressing mental health requires more than just programs; it requires a culture of care and support. Our staff is trained in emotional intelligence and trauma-informed techniques, which are essential for creating an environment where youth feel safe, understood, and valued. By cultivating deep, supportive relationships between kids and staff, we provide a foundation for our members to explore and foster their mental health.
Several specific programs at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley are designed to address mental health and provide our members with the tools they need to thrive.
Smart Girls and Passport to Manhood
Smart Girls and Passport are Nationally programs that focuses on the physical and emotional well-being of girls and boys ages 8 to 17. These program provides guidance on healthy attitudes and lifestyles, including topics such as self-esteem, relationships, and mental health. Through group discussions, interactive activities, and mentorship, the programs help participants develop a positive self-image and the skills to navigate the challenges they face. By fostering a supportive community, they create a safe space for members to explore their emotions and build resilience.
Peer-Based Support Groups
Peer-based support groups are another effective strategy we use to promote mental health. These groups provide a space for youth to share their experiences, learn from one another, and offer mutual support. Facilitated by trained staff, peer support groups
encourage open dialogue about mental health, reduce stigma, and foster a sense of community. By connecting with peers who are facing similar challenges, our members gain valuable insights and coping strategies, helping them feel less isolated and more understood.
Supportive Relationships
The organic impact of creating safe, supportive, and deep relationships between kids and staff cannot be overstated. When youth feel valued and supported by caring adults, they are more likely to open up about their struggles and seek help when needed. These relationships provide a crucial foundation for mental health support, as they help youth develop trust, self-confidence, and resilience.
At the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley, our staff members are more than just mentors; they are trusted confidants and advocates for our members. By taking the time to listen, understand, and respond to the unique needs of each child, our staff creates a nurturing environment where youth feel empowered to explore their emotions and take charge of their mental health. Whether it's through a casual conversation, a structured program, or simply being present, these relationships have a profound impact on our members' mental health and overall well-being.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley is dedicated to fostering an environment where mental health is a priority and is supported by emotional intelligence and traumainformed techniques. Our programs, peer-based support groups, and most importantly our relationships are designed to provide our members with the tools and support they need to navigate the challenges they face. By creating safe, supportive, and deep relationships between kids and staff, we enable our youth to explore and foster their mental health through meaningful connections.
As we continue to navigate the post-pandemic world, the importance of mental health support for youth cannot be overstated. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley is committed to addressing this critical issue by providing a safe, supportive environment where our members can thrive. By prioritizing mental health and leveraging the power of supportive relationships, we are helping our youth build the resilience and skills they need to face the future with confidence and hope.
When you participate in a Boys & Girls Club program you really are provided with a world-class experience that assures success is within the reach of every young person who enters their doors, just like their vision statement says. The staff came alongside me to make sure I was doing well in school and not only helped me but everyone in the program to create a plan for the future. They showed me how to dream about a better futurefor everyone - and how to make that dream a reality.
Every day you're greeted by a smile from the staff. It was a happy and safe place after a long day at school. This was highlighted when The BGC became my actual classroom during distance learning. A safe haven for everyone involved in such a difficult time.
However, it wasn’t JUST a warm, happy place; I was pushed to become better and work harder in the best way. Challenged to find my voice and develop skills that I would need in the real world. This has had a huge impact on who I am today, and who I am becoming. The staff at the Boys & Girls Club has always made me feel supported. Their openness gave me the space to grow and mature.
Being the oldest of four siblings, I have always been there to help my parents when they needed it (and even sometimes when they probably didn’t), and over time that has helped me realize that I really enjoy helping people. That, I CARE. So I began to consciously implement these things into my day. Small things, like volunteering at the Nursery at my Church, or being there for a friend in need. Even starting to volunteer for Kaiser Permanente at a help desk so others could feel more welcome, just like I do when I go to the Boys & Girls Club. At Boys & Girls Club it’s things like giving a compliment to a kid who looked a little down or sitting down to make an art project with them. This has led to my desire to help others and make an impact on not only MY future, but others as well.
In the future, I am going to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I specifically am looking to become a Labor and Delivery Nurse and to be a part of a momentous lifechange for the families I get to serve. As a nurse, I can help care for others in times of need, make positive connections, help educate, and overall make a difference in their lives. As an upperclassman and a planner, I am thinking about college more than ever, and what reaching this goal would look like. Choosing a path for after graduation can be a complicated process with too many and too few resources at the same time. A 4year, community college, trade school, and more - it’s overwhelming, especially without the right support. I am so thankful that the Boys & Girls Club has been such a support to me and helped me with my goals. They have taught me how to create reachable goals, and it was even one of the staff who pointed me towards volunteering at Kaiser.
They gave guidance; not only with my more professional goals but also with how I held myself. It was here that I found my voice. I had a voice to share my opinions, ask for change, and create a better future for myself and others. It was here that I realized I wanted to be a leader and not just a follower.
Given the opportunity to become Youth of the Year, I would use this voice I have found to help fellow youth with support towards their goals for the future. I am so thankful that I have had family and the Boys & Girls Club to help with the intricate process that is college, but not everyone has that. I want to work towards making sure that everyone has resources available to them that are easy to access. I desire to be a part of change and I want to support other youth as they grow as well.
So, for my peers, those listening and those coming in behind me, I urge youlean in. Be the support for others that the Boys & Girls Club has been for me. Understand that the Boys & Girls Club is a place where who you are, where you're from, or the circumstances that surround you, don’t determine your access to experiences or opportunities. Let us be that example. Let us create a better future.
Do you like music? Do you remember the song that reached into your soul? The music that left you feeling seen or heard? For me it was in the 5th grade when I heard a song for the first time. The song resonated with me in a way that I couldn’t explain. Within the harmonies and rhythms I felt a sense of validation and connection, as if the music was the counterpoint to my thoughts and feelings. In the melodies and lyrics I discovered an escape that promised understanding and acceptance and my personal haven emerged through the transformative power of music.
My experience with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley can be described in the same way. Like music, the supportive community at the Club became my source of comfort and empowerment, shaping a space where I could be myself, and for the first time, feel truly seen and heard through the transformative power of the Club.
My name is William Perez and I've been attending the Boys & Girls Clubs for 5 years. The teen you see today isn't the kid I was five years ago. I found my voice at the Club because of the community of friends and staff who helped me commit to myself. This experience helped me become a communicator. It helped me to create and express my ideas. It gave me opportunities to meet professionals in the areas I'm passionate about. It's also the place where I can put away all my worries and bring out my inner child for a few hours. Through daily participation in programs and activities, the Club has helped open me up to new opportunities, helped me find my voice and has motivated me to do more than ever before.
My first memories of the Club were in 5th grade during Summer Camp. If you've ever been to the Club during the Summer you know that every hour is back to back engaging activities. I will always remember “hour of code” in the technology lab, “cup stacking” competitions in the game room and learning to draw comics in the art room. On top of the activities and being surrounded with so many friends everyday, I always remembered the sense of safety I felt while at the Club. But I only found that safe harbor because of my sister Evelyn. She was the one who introduced me to the Club as she was a member of the teen center. Growing up I saw her and her close group of friends do so much and I wanted to follow in her footsteps as a volunteer, an artist and a leader.
As a middle schooler I struggled to make friends. I was severely bullied in school and I struggled with mental health. The Club was my safe place and the Club's Teen Center embraced me and allowed me to spend time being mentored by my sister and her friends. Spending time in the Teen Center I was able to connect with positive people that
I could look up to. They showed me that I had value and how to maintain a positive mindset even while navigating bullies. The Club gave me the opportunity to participate in many activities. I volunteered at the annual Halloween carnivals, I helped put together monthly family dinner events, and I supported teen nights. One of my core memories from that time came in my 8th grade year when I was finally able to attend my first annual Overnight Lock-In Challenge. I got to interact with over 40 other teens, play in a variety of competitions and have fun making lasting memories as a kid. This would go on to be my last memory of the Club before the Pandemic.
The Pandemic was a really difficult time for me. I struggled with deep depression and even when the world started to open up I found myself self-isolating from the world. I had all of these habits that just reinforced this unhealthy state-of-mind and the cause was clear. I had lost two of the most important things in my life: my sister had left for college and I couldn't go to the Club.
It was the Club that saved me. I eventually worked up the courage to return, and when I did, I found old friends and staff unveiling a mural they had put together in the alley leading to the Club. That day was a second start. I was hopeful and motivated. I chose to go back to school in person because of it. A few weeks later, I was back at the Club, but now as an active member of the teen center. I have gone from being completely isolated to participating as a volunteer in Keystone. Since then I’ve started my own band with my friends, joined the national fine arts program, and participated in various teen night outs.
This year, the most impactful program I have participated in is the collaboration with professional artist Blake Barrios. We are working on a collaborative art project that has been recognized nationally by musician and actor Lenny Kravitz, creating artwork that will go on to help fundraise for my community. The project has been a dream for me as it has helped me make connections with people who have built lives around what I love to do. They’ve shown me that these things are attainable and that’s huge.
My name is William Perez, and when you look at me, you may see the quiet teen with hair draped over his face, but the man I am today is so different from the one I could have been; the one sitting alone at home. The Club is the place that connected me to the most important part of this transformation story, a community. The Community I’ve found has been a key part in rebuilding the person I want to be. Something special happens when you spend time with great people. At the Club it's not just a room full of ordinary youth and adults, it's a place filled with people who have shown me that the journey to success is long but if you keep going forward the best is ahead. I was isolated, silenced, and depressed but now I am surrounded by a mixture of the volunteers, musicians and artists that I look up to. Today I'm connected, engaged and motivated to build that same kind of community for others. I will continue to use my voice and talents to reach those who feel like I did so that we can create opportunities for the next generation together.
If you came here to read a story like those of the magic you read in fairy tales then turn the page because this is not your typical Cinderella fairytale. My story was not always the prettiest or easiest to accept, but for many from my community and my culture this is reality and it doesn't always end up like mine.
My name is Laizah Coronado, I am a proud Mexican American female, who is the middle child of 6. As the middle child, it can be hard to find your own way, your own voice and out of the need for survival, helping your family is not a choice but a responsibility and honor you must carry. This has made it difficult for me to find balance in my interests, school, and home, affecting my mental health.
So, what makes my story different? Well, I guess you can say Cinderella didn’t have The Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley. My story is different, because The Boys & Girls Clubs acted as the spark I needed to become the hero of my own story by giving me the ability, skills, and opportunities to continue writing my own fairytale and the next chapter of the future I want to live.
11 years ago, when I arrived at The Club, the place that would eventually save my life, I knew I was home. The Club accepted me and my older siblings with open arms. I was shy and quiet but they didn’t try to change me or treat me like I was less, they treated me as an equal and always expected the best out of me. Early on I knew that The Club could be my place to shine and wouldn't let me box myself in.
I've participated in a variety of programs that have shaped me and laid the foundation for who I am today. The most impactful was Smart girls; which enhanced my self-esteem, Power hour; that taught me how to manage my time and get help with my homework and lastly Jr. Staff, a program that built my leadership skills and gave me a sense of ownership in The Club.
As I continued to grow up, so has my level of participation in programs that develop my character, leadership and my future. After quarantine, the Club 1515 teen center became my place to do just that and gave me a safe place to explore who I wanted to be going forward. It would allow me to have a space of my own to dream again. Every day was something new and exciting, everything from talks with the staff, to cooking, to tournaments, to art projects, to movie nights and being surrounded by people.
Building community with Club members is pivotal in my story. Such as volunteering with
Keystone to create The Great Futures Road trip, where we had the opportunity to explore new cities, tour colleges and business that expanded our mindset on what we want to do in our futures. Participating in “Teen Night Out, gave me the opportunity to connect with my peers outside of school and helped me gain my personality and genuine happiness back after quarantine had isolated me for so long. Developing connection with my peers helped me remember how much I thrived surrounded by people.
Over the years, attending The Club I learned that the true reason it is such a special place is because of its staff. Without the staff doing whatever it takes, my story would look a lot different. No matter how lost I was feeling at home or at school my staff were there every day to help me find my way and to fill my needs. I learned how to express myself and my interest more effectively through having great examples in my staff like Josh who I look up to for his ability to share openly without being negatively affected by others. I could count on staff like Jafet, whose words helped change my perspective and Cheza who woke me up to having fun with any activity. It was also my friends like Lilan who made sure I was never alone and walked with me to The Club every day and my brother Eduardo, who set a great example as a Club leader and helped open the doors to the possibilities of my dreams and the future.
Now as I step into my senior year of high school I will continue to be a leader in school, in my community and at The Club. I am an active member of my school's color guard team, I was elected the president of our award winning Keystone Club and I now have been nominated for the award of National Teen Recruit of the Year for helping my Clubs with Teen Outreach. In the future I plan to use all that I have experienced at The Club to pursue my dream of becoming a therapist and having a career in mental health services.
Now, I plan to use my platform and future career to help shape my community like The Club helped to shape my future. I will be an advocate for mental health services and for the need of community, which will empower young people with the ability, skills and opportunities to reach their highest potential. The Boys and Girls Club of Napa Valley is that community. I will advocate for those struggling to find help and continue to work with local leaders to make sure The Club continues to be that place for everyone.
Throughout my life the Boys & Girls Club has been so many things to me; a safe place, a shelter, a fascinating environment to explore my interests, and even a second home. With kindness and encouragement, the Boys & Girls Clubs helped me throughout my life and I’ve learned a lot within those walls. I've learned about my friends, about the community that surrounds me, and who I am as a person. The Club's guidance has helped me come to terms with who I am now and who I want to be as an adult.
My whole life, I've always loved talking to people. I love getting to know others and the communities I'm involved with. Public school was my way of meeting people, but the Boys & Girls Club was my way of connecting with them. At school you’re restricted to your friends in the classroom, but at the Club you talk to all sorts of kids from different grades, ethnicities, and backgrounds. I spent hours at the Club, getting to know my future friends. I listened to their stories and gave them advice when they needed it. It’s where I learned the importance of paying attention. Paying attention is often overlooked but it’s a valuable part of a great future. My time spent at the Club got me close will all sorts of kids and those interactions forged connections that became really central to who I am. During activities at the Club, I'd talk to older kids, And when I got into high school, those older kids, now sophomores and juniors, helped me navigate my way through high school. They helped me get around campus, play sports and prepared me for my first audition.
I’ve met many people through the Boys & Girls Club but the individuals that had the most influence on my life have always been the staff. The Club’s staff were always cool grownups, that you could trust, respect, and relate to. When you needed it most, they gave useful advice that would stick with you as you grew. My most meaningful experience was meeting a staff named Geli back in the 5th grade. Geli opened our eyes to the world of art. We saw how versatile each crafted piece could be. This exposure that seemed to be just water stains on a paper opened a door… A door that helped me realize the importance of self-expression. Expressing myself through art and drawing lit a fire in me and led me fall in love with the performing arts. This path led me to the American high School Drama electives where I went from drawing in a sketchbook to performing on stage. The lessons I learned and the relationships I built at the Club fostered a deep connection with my peers and I was elected as “Drama 1” representative and served as an officer of American Canyon High School’s drama club.
These opportunities allowed me to build on the principles I had learned at the Boys & Girls Club. I chose and continue to express interest in my peers to build strong relationships. By doing this I understood their emotions, empathized with each situation, and supported every endeavor. I listened, spoke, and understood their wants and needs. They felt heard and trusted me to represent them. It felt nice being in a position of authority, But it felt even better knowing that I was a sign of direction who could help others, I thank the Club for giving me this jumpstart. Helping me understand diverse backgrounds, empathizing with others, and develop the strong personality I have to this day. Boys & Girls Club brought upon my skill of connecting with others and developed my leadership. Boys and Girls Club made me the person I am today and I advocate every future member to make the most out of their experience attending the club.
To all future and current members listening, be yourself. Try new things, regardless of what others might think. Don’t be afraid to be express who you are. Have fun and enjoy your time at the club. Your future is bright so keep on shining.
Throughout my life the Boys & Girls Club has been so many things to me; a safe place, a shelter, a fascinating environment to explore my interests, and even a second home. With kindness and encouragement, the Boys & Girls Clubs helped me throughout my life and I’ve learned a lot within those walls. I've learned about my friends, about the community that surrounds me, and who I am as a person. The Club's guidance has helped me come to terms with who I am now and who I want to be as an adult.
My whole life, I've always loved talking to people. I love getting to know others and the communities I'm involved with. Public school was my way of meeting people, but the Boys & Girls Club was my way of connecting with them. At school you’re restricted to your friends in the classroom, but at the Club you talk to all sorts of kids from different grades, ethnicities, and backgrounds. I spent hours at the Club, getting to know my future friends. I listened to their stories and gave them advice when they needed it. It’s where I learned the importance of paying attention. Paying attention is often overlooked but it’s a valuable part of a great future. My time spent at the Club got me close will all sorts of kids and those interactions forged connections that became really central to who I am. During activities at the Club, I'd talk to older kids, And when I got into high school, those older kids, now sophomores and juniors, helped me navigate my way through high school. They helped me get around campus, play sports and prepared me for my first audition.
I’ve met many people through the Boys & Girls Club but the individuals that had the most influence on my life have always been the staff. The Club’s staff were always cool grownups, that you could trust, respect, and relate to. When you needed it most, they gave useful advice that would stick with you as you grew. My most meaningful experience was meeting a staff named Geli back in the 5th grade. Geli opened our eyes to the world of art. We saw how versatile each crafted piece could be. This exposure that seemed to be just water stains on a paper opened a door… A door that helped me realize the importance of self-expression. Expressing myself through art and drawing lit a fire in me and led me fall in love with the performing arts. This path led me to the American high School Drama electives where I went from drawing in a sketchbook to performing on stage. The lessons I learned and the relationships I built at the Club fostered a deep connection with my peers and I was elected as “Drama 1” representative and served as an officer of American Canyon High School’s drama club.
These opportunities allowed me to build on the principles I had learned at the Boys & Girls Club. I chose and continue to express interest in my peers to build strong relationships. By doing this I understood their emotions, empathized with each situation, and supported every endeavor. I listened, spoke, and understood their wants and needs. They felt heard and trusted me to represent them. It felt nice being in a position of authority, But it felt even better knowing that I was a sign of direction who could help others, I thank the Club for giving me this jumpstart. Helping me understand diverse backgrounds, empathizing with others, and develop the strong personality I have to this day. Boys & Girls Club brought upon my skill of connecting with others and developed my leadership. Boys and Girls Club made me the person I am today and I advocate every future member to make the most out of their experience attending the club.
To all future and current members listening, be yourself. Try new things, regardless of what others might think. Don’t be afraid to be express who you are. Have fun and enjoy your time at the club. Your future is bright so keep on shining.
Throughout my life the Boys & Girls Club has been so many things to me; a safe place, a shelter, a fascinating environment to explore my interests, and even a second home. With kindness and encouragement, the Boys & Girls Clubs helped me throughout my life and I’ve learned a lot within those walls. I've learned about my friends, about the community that surrounds me, and who I am as a person. The Club's guidance has helped me come to terms with who I am now and who I want to be as an adult.
My whole life, I've always loved talking to people. I love getting to know others and the communities I'm involved with. Public school was my way of meeting people, but the Boys & Girls Club was my way of connecting with them. At school you’re restricted to your friends in the classroom, but at the Club you talk to all sorts of kids from different grades, ethnicities, and backgrounds. I spent hours at the Club, getting to know my future friends. I listened to their stories and gave them advice when they needed it. It’s where I learned the importance of paying attention. Paying attention is often overlooked but it’s a valuable part of a great future. My time spent at the Club got me close will all sorts of kids and those interactions forged connections that became really central to who I am. During activities at the Club, I'd talk to older kids, And when I got into high school, those older kids, now sophomores and juniors, helped me navigate my way through high school. They helped me get around campus, play sports and prepared me for my first audition.
I’ve met many people through the Boys & Girls Club but the individuals that had the most influence on my life have always been the staff. The Club’s staff were always cool grownups, that you could trust, respect, and relate to. When you needed it most, they gave useful advice that would stick with you as you grew. My most meaningful experience was meeting a staff named Geli back in the 5th grade. Geli opened our eyes to the world of art. We saw how versatile each crafted piece could be. This exposure that seemed to be just water stains on a paper opened a door… A door that helped me realize the importance of self-expression. Expressing myself through art and drawing lit a fire in me and led me fall in love with the performing arts. This path led me to the American high School Drama electives where I went from drawing in a sketchbook to performing on stage. The lessons I learned and the relationships I built at the Club fostered a deep connection with my peers and I was elected as “Drama 1” representative and served as an officer of American Canyon High School’s drama club.
These opportunities allowed me to build on the principles I had learned at the Boys & Girls Club. I chose and continue to express interest in my peers to build strong relationships. By doing this I understood their emotions, empathized with each situation, and supported every endeavor. I listened, spoke, and understood their wants and needs. They felt heard and trusted me to represent them. It felt nice being in a position of authority, But it felt even better knowing that I was a sign of direction who could help others, I thank the Club for giving me this jumpstart. Helping me understand diverse backgrounds, empathizing with others, and develop the strong personality I have to this day. Boys & Girls Club brought upon my skill of connecting with others and developed my leadership. Boys and Girls Club made me the person I am today and I advocate every future member to make the most out of their experience attending the club.
To all future and current members listening, be yourself. Try new things, regardless of what others might think. Don’t be afraid to be express who you are. Have fun and enjoy your time at the club. Your future is bright so keep on shining.