2016 ANNUAL
REPORT
TESORO IS PROUD TO SUPPORT
STEM programs
for the BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS of Skagit County From engineers to pipefitters, chemists to accountants, IT specialists to welders, Tesoro’s success relies on our ability to recruit and retain employees with exceptional STEM-related skills. As an employer constantly seeking out top-talent and as a socially responsible corporate citizen, supporting STEM education-related programs is the cornerstone of Tesoro’s community investment strategy. We are proud to collaborate with the Boys & Girls Club of Skagit County on the establishment of the Tesoro STEM Academy, and further its mission to enable all young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.
2016 BOARD OF DIRECTORS President – Mark Lawrence Simply Yards Landscaping
Vice President – Mike Gubrud
Mark Lawrence Board President
To all that celebrate our Clubs with me, Following two very strong Board Presidents can be intimidating, regardless of the size of the organization, or mission, especially when both had worked hard to provide leadership that resulted in our Clubs doubling in size in just two years! I have been fortunate that during my board service with the Boys & Girls Club of Skagit County, my peers have time and again demonstrated passion and advocacy at an inspirational level of engagement. Thank you to Annette Booth and Stephanie Hooper, and those they followed, who built the foundation of an amazing agency that now serves more than 1,700 annually in our local communities. Even with such significant leadership to model after, I have been blessed with the ability to benefit from additional development opportunities through Boys & Girls Clubs. In May, my wife Jackie joined me in New Orleans, LA with several other Board members, as we attended the 110th National Conference of Boys & Girls Clubs of America. We attended sessions on Leadership, Board Development, Strategic Planning, and much more. However, it was the General Sessions that really touched us in a meaningful way. Not only were the keynote speakers superb, providing meaningful and thought-provoking messages, it was hearing from Club kids from all over America, seeing a dance troupe perform from a local Club, and witnessing the result of the collective impact of more than 4,000 Clubs just like ours, reaching 4 million youth each year, that touched Jackie and me personally. We are truly part of something special, and very much honored to be.
Mike Gubrud Farmers Insurance Agency
Vice President – Kelly Tuohig Tesoro Corporation
Treasurer – Becky Taft Skagit Bank
Secretary – Carrie Wallace Skagit Bank
Past President – Stephanie Hooper Bayside Specialties
Past President – Annette Booth Booth Insurance/Allstate Insurance Co.
Member – Pat Barrett Barrett Financial, LTD
Member – Dr. Carl Bruner Mount Vernon School District Superintendent
Member – Raymond Goda DreamchasersRV of Burlington
Member – Tom Pasma Tom L. Pasma Auctioneers Double S Quarter Horses, Inc
Attending another gathering this fall, with more of a regional focus, I had the opportunity to dig deeper with other board members, and through those discussions and in comparing operational information, learned that our Club staff are simply awesome, our Board top notch, and that the Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County is quite healthy and instituting best practices in every way. Where others may struggle, we shine, and so your important investment in our organization is truly getting the best return on investment possible. In fact, at the Regional Conference, we were twice honored in front of a full room of our peers. Our Board received a League of Eagles award, and for the second year in a row, our Clubs earned a Gateway to Impact Award from Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
Member – Danielle Martin
Thank you for joining us in this journey as we work to change lives in Skagit County,
Member – Jennifer Fix
Mark Lawrence Owner, Simply Yards Landscaping & Design
Member – Tina Asp Image360
Rodan + Fields Dermatologists
Member – Holly Shannon Carson Law Group
Peace Health 3
Ron McHenry Exectutive Director
Dear Friends, Your very personal commitment to our mission; to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens, is something that we celebrate within the pages of our Annual Report to you. You invest, you engage, you advocate, you share your skills with us; each contributes to our Boys & Girls Club movement, and ability to serve our youth, ages 6-18, in Skagit County. The work on this publication begins in early fall, with creation of a theme and setting for information to be communicated to our extended Club family. Recognizing that so many of our staff have been in the Boys & Girls Club movement for years, and having several that grew up within the Clubs themselves, that theme was manifest quickly. Our professional staff and volunteers, especially those on the front line of youth development, often reminisce about years gone by, and enjoy talking about how they’ve seen our precious kids grow over time, and for those with a history of Club participation, a very personal perspective. Throughout our 2016 Annual Report to our community you will find updates on current initiatives, where we are at in providing impact to kids in Skagit County, but perhaps what I am most proud of are the staff and volunteer reflections. Just as you share your time, talent, and treasure with us in a personal way, we are honored to match that connection in the best way we know how: giving you a deeper insight into what your commitment means to us in providing our ability to reach youth who need us most. The Boys & Girls Club movement began in 1856, in Hartford, CT. It may have taken one hundred forty years for a Club to be established in Skagit County, but we are 4
proud to be taking a position as a leader amongst Clubs nationwide. In the last three years, we have piloted several cutting-edge initiatives and programs, gained notoriety as an organization with a staunch belief of being data-informed so that we can better serve our youth, and as Boys & Girls Clubs of America begins instituting a youth program quality initiative, YPQA, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County is being called upon by peers from Clubs all over the country. We are in our third year of implementing YPQA, having been an early adopter after recognizing the importance of remaining relevant and dutiful in our commitment to achieving the highest level of outcome-based results. As a component of GreatFutures 2025, a national strategic plan, we are positioned well to provide support and influence that can impact youth well beyond our local communities. Our focus is certainly on our local kids and the communities we serve, but in being connected to a true movement of more than 50,000 professionals worldwide, we are uniquely positioned to affect circumstances in the very world that our Club kids will grow into. Not all will remain in Skagit County when they transition into adulthood and take their place in society, and so balancing a role of leadership in support of youth near and far ultimately benefits everyone. On behalf of what I consider to be the best dynamic group of professionals in youth development, ready to answer their call to affect great change, I thank you for being a member of our extended family, and demonstrating why Skagit County is such a very special place. Yours in service,
Ron McHenry, CEO
In this Report...
LETTER FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT
...3
REFLECTIONS: THE CLUB THAT ...21 BEATS THE STREETS
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
...3
YOUTH OF THE YEAR
LETTER FROM THE CEO
...4
REFLECTIONS: THE MOUNT BAKER CLUB
THANK YOU SUPPORTERS ...6, 8-9, 15, 17, 20-25, 31, 34-35, 39
OUR TEAM
...6-9
YOUTH PROGRAM QUALITY INTERVENTION
...7, 9
BY THE NUMBERS: CAPACITY ...10-11 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
...12-13
REFLECTIONS: THE ANACORTES ...14 CLUB REFLECTIONS: A SECOND HOME ...17 BY THE NUMBERS: BUDGET...18-19 GENERAL CLUB INFO
...20
...22-25
...26
REFLECTIONS: THE LAVENTURE ...26-27 CLUB COLLEGE TOUR INSPIRES NEW ...28-31 HEIGHTS IN MEMORIAM OF JACK GUBRUD
...32-33
REFLECTIONS: GROWING UP WITH THE CLUBS 2016 YEAR IN REVIEW
...34
...36-37
REFLECTIONS: THE MOUNT VERNON CLUB
...38
STEM: AT THE CLUBS & IN THE ...40-41 FIELD REFLECTIONS: THE SEDROWOOLLEY CLUB
...42
Credits: The printing & mailing services for this Annual Report were donated by K&H Integrated Printing
Solutions. Additional photography provided by Azota Photography, Cookson Beecher, and Foxlight Photography. Historical records & photos provided by Joyce Nagel.
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Our Team
THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERS!
Ron McHenry Executive Director
Ian Faley Associate Executive Director
Manny Smith Director of Operations
Tammy Findlay Director of Marketing & Stewardship
Sarah Arquitt Director of Administration
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Annette Booth — Allstate Insurance Dan & Carrie Worra Les & Sharon Coopper Nancy Rytand Linda R Dubinski A.B. Palmer Judy & Ed Hjort Nate Scott William & Dolores Thomson Brian & Christine Youngquist Danielle Price Jim V. & Judy Smith Avalon Golf Links Mt. Baker Gymnastics Heather Hoppes Jack & Stephanie Hamilton RIS Insurance Services Fidalgo Island Rotary Foundation Howard & Elaine Huffstodt Albert Stubbs Desha Furin Docking Bay 93 Hugh & Stacy Pierce Brian Soneda Skagit Valley Signs. Life Care Center of Skagit County Skagit Community Foundation Jack & Shirley McIntyre Family Foundation Joseph Chong Dawn & Patrick Severin Pelindaba Lavender Robert Coffey, MD Cap Sante Inn, LLC Annette Pankey Kroger Pete Gilbert Woods Coffee Tony Salas James & Betsy Shields Shannon Charnley Bill & Shirlee Reinard Gary & Hollie Brand Shannon Patt & Suzanne Butler Ryan & Kaitlyn Brisson Waterfront Cafe Microsoft Matching Gifts Program Dorothy McCartney Jan Link Anacortes Housing Authority Jeff Jones John & Tanya Probstfield R.W. Baird Gerald & Bonnie Bowers Curt & Monica Oppel Marie Anthony Flowers on Woodworth La Conner Civic Garden Club MaryAnn Hatfield Richard & Jodie Curtis Cascade Pizza John & Julie Small Ron & Jan Wesen David Willams Catherine & Keith Wyman Mark & Deanna Collins Janna Gage El Gitano Cascade Natural Gas J.W. Zielinski Fred & Sharon Fisher Dana Andrich
Our Team
New Initiatives:
YOUTH PROGRAM QUALITY INTERVENTION
John Garman
W
hat gets measured, gets improved. In the ever evolving world of youth development programs, it is important that we stay up to date with the latest methods and techniques that are required to provide high quality programs for our Club members. The Youth Program Quality Intervention (YPQI) is one tool that will help us stay in the forefront of youth development and after-school programs. Developed by the David P. Weikart Center for Youth Program Quality, YPQI is an in-depth evaluative process for improving program quality, built around the evidence based Youth Program Quality Assessment (PQA), it involves a three part approach to program quality: Assess-Plan-Improve. This sequence helps programs turn membership participation data into useful information for program improvement. The PQA allows for staff to have data-informed conversations that will enhance professional development decisions and increase strategies for better programs and outcomes for our Club members. The PQA is already in use within The Washington State Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County. In November, four of our Club sites participated in external assessments. Representatives from outside agencies spent some time observing various staff and programs, and provided feedback in the areas of Safe Environment, Supportive Environment, Staff Interaction with members, and Member Engagement. The results of these assessments provided valuable information regarding strengths and vulnerabilities within our program implementation methods. Club staff will use that information to develop quality improvement plans focused on enhancing the overall Club experience to include additional staff training and making program enhancement modifications. We are committed to only providing the best product for our members and communities. Moving forward, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County, in collaboration with neighboring organizations, will increase our participation in YPQI through increased external assessments throughout our sites. Additionally, we will work to engage our staff, community councils and board members in conducting internal assessments and peer Continued on page ...9
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Director of STEM Initiatives
Katelynn Sullivan Community Development Coordinator
Alivia Holman Club Director, Sedro-Woolley
Shane Collins Program Director, Sedro-Woolley
Patrick Dougher Teen Coordinator, Sedro-Woolley
Our Team Taylor Bannister Club Director, Anacortes
Andrew Worcester Program Director, Anacortes
Tori Grace Teen Coordinator, Anacortes
Mary Sue Walker Club Director, Mount Baker Middle School
Rotary Club of Burlington Proud to Support Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County
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Mac & Jack Brewery Carl & Carmen Bruner Jordan & Kimberly Joy Mellich All About Hearing Mexico Cafe Mona Reynolds Bryace & Kristen Schaffner James & Michele Tangaro Tesoro Companies, Inc Kecia Fox & Brian Adams La Conner Channel Lodge K Johnson Ed & Sharon Jackson Roche Harbor Resort Perfectly Posh Holland America Line, Inc Ed King MJB Properties, LLC Skagit Law Group, PLLC Kendall & Nancy Gentry Greg & Lou Ann Reed Rebecah Fratianni Jackie Davison Erin Baker’s Wholesome Baked Goods Ken Codlin Gail Renovard Kiwanis Club of Mount Vernon Ann Wilder David Svaren Dick & Dawn Nord Guy & Sandra Davidson James Bobb Nancy & Joe Halton City of Anacortes Kelli Larson Garrison Engineering Christina Molina & Eduardo Martinez Katie Stamwitz Elizabeth & Harley Theaker Janson Foundation Isaac & Sarah Williams Blade Chevrolet Beth & Tim Wallace Jennifer Blanchard Jennifer Arnold & Shawn Palmer Sue Harrington Dave Evans Chris & Cynthia Adams Pat Grenfell Sebo`s Do-It-Center La Conner Pub & Eatery Craft Stove Shirley Yap Sara Myers Janicki Industries Tammy Findlay Envy Salon James & Janet Ebersole Burlington Rotary Foundation John & Dolores Bratland Evan Henke Jerry Smith Kia Costco. Sierra Pacific Foundation George Busse Per Dona Salon Spa Naun & Perpetuo Gallardo Eugene & Doris Benson Bernadine & Pat Galbraith Neighbors In Need Food Bank Emmett & Mary Richards Scott Sutton Gap, Inc Caroline Lamantia Lynnette Setmire Jeanne Law Designs Kevin L Rogerson Jim Barrio
reviews. Our goal is to advance towards our objective of providing an Optimal Club Experience through data informed conversations and planning, furthering our mission to grow as the preferred youth serving organization in our community and beyond.
Angela Freeberg Club Director, Mount Vernon
Supporters continued... Bernadette Halliday Gina MacDonald Lee Mann Photography Brinderson, L.P. Jennifer Durney Debbie & James Allen Kelly Boardman Robert Shrumm Levi Mather Seth & Sarah Woolson State Street Barber Shop Robert & Jeannette Papadakis Triple Play Family Fun Park Joe Slidich Brian Jackson Insurance Agency, Inc. Thomas & Candace Kingman Joe & Diane Best The Stall Kathy Elde Karen Keown & Dan Melka Brian & Peggy Paxton Ronald & Jamie Mitchell Kim Hildahl PACCAR Technical Center Carrie Balser Reisner Distributor, Inc. Mary-Ann Gutierrez Esco Bell Jim & Paula Glackin Brenda & Sean Cornett Farmers Group, Inc Brian & Caroline Davis Jim & Sharon Dillon Bernard & Mireille Kramer Mount Baker Gymnastices Collin Guildner Megan Tuohig Claire Wagner Bob’s Burger & Brew Rob Martin Jonna Zieber Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund Jennifer L Fix Express Employment Professionals Bill & Gina Gillespie Kevin Thomas Majestic Inn & Spa TJ & Karen Larrick Regence BlueShield Janet Whalen Thompson’s Greenhouse Wendy & Jerry Lucas Charles & Talbot Thompson Michael & Georgette Lanhart Patrick Dougher Tony & Tina Asp Sandra Ball Holly & Josh Shannon Jessica Cantrell Tesoro Foundation, Inc The Woolley Market Victoria W Morell Diederick Bron Shelly’s Shack Darren & Renata Maybruck
Our Team
Erik Pineda Program Director, Mount Vernon
KJ Evans Club Director, La Conner
Brian Gustafson Club Director, LaVenture Middle School
Proud to Support Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County 9
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BUILDING CAPACITY Building Capacity is established as the ideal maximum number of youth a facility can serve on any given day. This is determined by taking available square footage, and including at least one ‘group’ outside where feasible. This results in just 20 square feet per member. None of our Clubhouses were truly designed as kid facilities, and are primarily modular or annex space, built just beyond residential specifications. Imagine a 1,600 sq ft home with 80 youth ages 6-18 engaging in activities and programs for perspective; this is certainly not ideal, but we work to serve as many young people as we can within these limitations.
FUNDING CAPACITY Funding Capacity is determined by several factors. What the building will actually hold takes an obvious priority, and is followed by a careful balance of community need, local support, and special funding that is sometimes only available to specific communities based on targeted demographics. Often, cooperative and collaborative endeavors also define how we can serve, as is the case in Mount Vernon— home to LaVenture, Mount Baker, and Mount Vernon Clubhouses. Thanks to engagement with the Mount Vernon School District, Community Action of Skagit County, Western Washington University, and Skagit Land Trust, the organization was able to secure 21st Century Learning Center funding, with a total value of more than $300,000.
CURRENT ATTENDANCE Our Cu r rent Attend ance is strong, and has grown by 100% in the last three years. In only their second year, the LaVenture and Mount Baker Clubhouses are quickly growing and are projected to reach capacity this Spring. All others are above funded capacity, which places significant strain on our professional staff and volunteers to deliver quality programs. As a result, waiting lists are established until additional funding can be secured to reach building capacity. In Mount Vernon, there simply is no more room for elementary age youth, and larger space is needed to reach those kids who need us most. 10
By the Numbers:
BUILDING CAPACITY, FUNDING CAPACITY, CURRENT ATTENDANCE ANACORTES: BUILDING CAPACITY: 120
80
82
120
FUNDING CAPACITY: 80 CURRENT ATTENDANCE: 82 LA CONNER: BUILDING CAPACITY: 75
45
51
75
FUNDING CAPACITY: 45 CURRENT ATTENDANCE: 51 SEDRO-WOOLLEY: BUILDING CAPACITY: 140
110
113
140
FUNDING CAPACITY: 110 CURRENT ATTENDANCE: 113 MOUNT VERNON: BUILDING CAPACITY: 75
75
75
82
FUNDING CAPACITY: 75 CURRENT ATTENDANCE: 82 LAVENTURE MIDDLE SCHOOL: BUILDING CAPACITY: 90
65
80
90
FUNDING CAPACITY: 80 CURRENT ATTENDANCE: 65 MOUNT BAKER MIDDLE SCHOOL: BUILDING CAPACITY: 90
55
80
90
FUNDING CAPACITY: 80 CURRENT ATTENDANCE: 55 SK AGIT COUNTY: BUILDING CAPACITY: 590
448 FUNDING CAPACITY: 495 CURRENT ATTENDANCE: 448
495
590 11
SAVE THE DATE February SAT
May
25
THURS
WINTER FUNDRAISER
Sedro-Woolley Club Director, Alivia Holman, is adding some spice to this year’s Sedro-Woolley Club Fundraiser with some karaoke and a special guest appearance. There will also be a dinner, a silent auction, local beer & wine, and a dessert dash. Come warm up your singing voice and enjoy a night with friends, all while supporting the Woolley kids.
Sponsored by Dwayne Lane’s Cascade Ford
ANACORTES BREAKFAST The Anacortes Club celebrates its members and their accomplishments at an event that brings the community together. Combined with a Club tour and short program, participants are educated about what makes the Anacortes Club unique.
Sponsored by Anacortes Kiwanis Sunrisers
March WED
15
June
7:30AM
BREAKFAST FOR GREAT KIDS The Annual Breakfast is our celebratory wrap-up to our Campaign for GREAT Kids. Recognizing the incredible business & community support that enables the work of the Clubs, the Breakfast is our time to thank our partners, while sharing the passion & goals of 2017.
Sponsored by Trico Companies, LLC.
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18
FRI
23 24 /
KEYS FOR KIDS
SAT
Choose your night! Come enjoy a summer garden party with us at the exquisite gardens of La Conner Flats. Featuring dueling pianos, dancing, games, premium wine & beer, and a delicious dinner.
Sponsored by Tesoro Corp
CALENDAR OF EVENTS August FRI
11
NOV
GOLF TOURNAMENT Our signature Golf Tournament is a time to come and enjoy the links, on behalf of the Clubs. With business partners from all over the Valley represented, visit with your friends, and celebrate the beautiful course at Avalon Golf Links. Hosting great games, and fun competitions throughout the course, come and shoot par for the kids.
DINNER WITH FRIENDS
Sponsored by Blade Chevrolet
Each Club holds their own Dinner with Friends event. These friend-raisers serve as Club Youth of the Year Celebrations, with many awards to be handed out. From A/V to speeches, our kids run the show, gaining valuable skills in the process.
November
January
FRI
3
GREAT FUTURES GALA This annual fundraiser celebrates the incredible work that sets the Clubs apart and emphasizes the singular impact the Clubs can make in our youths’ lives. Come and bid for the kids, enjoy festive food and drink, engage in fun activities with your friends, and be a Champion for youth in our area.
Sponsored by DreamchasersRV
2018 YOUTH OF THE YEAR
This dinner is the culmination of the Youth of the Year program and the greatest recognition of youth leadership in Skagit County. At the Dinner, the representative chosen to be the Youth of the Year for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County is announced, and we celebrate the staff that make our programs amazing. With the presence of community leaders, we look to recognize the #GreatFutures that we are enabling.
Sponsored by Hendricks Family Foundation 13
Reflections:
THE ANACORTES CLUB
M
AND to be a part of each y first day of work youth’s life for up to 12 with the Anacortes Boys & Girls Club years, leading to an incredible impact. My trajectory was at the tail end of sumchanged completely. In the mer, in 2007. It was my Taylor Bannister summer of 2011, I returned first job and was a hectic Club Director, Anacortes to the Anacortes Club, takfirst day of learning how things worked, and trying to remember the names of ing on the role of Program Director, to the excitement each Club kid that ran up to say “hello.” One of the first and joy of many of my past Club kids. Club members that I remember meeting was a little Since then I have had the opportunity to meet and 7 year old girl named Erin. Erin made herself known mentor more youth than I can count, having a hand quickly and informed me that she could answer any in days, weeks, or years of their life and their own questions I might have about my new position. Over trajectory. I have watched numerous past Club memthe years, Erin became a constant figure in my Club bers graduate from High School, and will have my life. She asserted her personality in Club programs first group of youth who joined the Club when I did, and excelled greatly through Junior Staff. She never in 2007, graduate in just two more years. What a feat lost her spunk in terms of looking at herself as a Club to be a part of. staff member, and was always the first to volunteer for duties like giving tours or explaining Club rules to kids. This year my point of pride is being a mentor to Erin as she competes in the Youth of the Year competition as In 2010, I made the decision to leave the Clubs to pura junior in high school. From that rambunctious seven sue my education at Western Washington University. year old who knew more about the Clubs than I did, My plan had always been to earn a degree in theatre to a strong and inspirational sixteen year old who not arts and education. During my year away from the Club, only excels in school but also on the basketball court. however, I would think about my Club kids like Erin, and Being a part of her growth and life from that moment how they had been such a constant in my life for the she first shook my hand, to now, is such a great accompast 3 years. I realized then that, while teaching would plishment. I couldn’t be more proud to have been even afford me the ability to teach and grow hundreds of a small piece of what helps her be great. youth, my job with the Clubs would allow me to do that
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L to R: 2016 Anacortes Youth of the Year, Erin H. when she first attended the Club, and today, pictured with her father. Club Director, Taylor Bannister with a group of Club kids on a Summer field trip. 2013 Anacortes Youth of the Year, Alexis H. at her 2016 Cap Sante High School Graduation with Taylor.
INVESTING BACK INTO OUR FUTURE!
www.karmart.com
Patricia & Darwin Anderson The Drain Doctor Dad’s Diner A-Go-Go Lani Donohue 5th Avenue Theatre Simply Yards Landscape & Design Elizabeth & David Bishop Rod Hendricks Modern Cleaners Donald & Colleen Slack Michael & Patricia Norris Nadine Larson Shannon & Eric Whalen Panera Bread Joan Yonker Aleli Howell Steve & Roxy Forbes James & Katherine Duffy All in One Insurance Mark & Mary Kiser/Joe & Linda Lindholm Ferry & Company, LLC Phil & Tamera Brockman Leslie Hasting Tim & Nicole Martinson InFaith Community Foundation Red Door Gifts Mary Poppe Alyeska Ocean Roger Noar Mike & Barb Matheson Donald & Ora Jonasson Kim & Matt Miller Epicure Rick Stack Tiffany & Tom Urland Beverly Harrington Warren Gilbert Gary & Pam Miller Bart & Patty Smith Kaye Shaw John & Kari Barone Jason Garten Sandy Swartos Cottage Salon William & Wendy Rabel JoAnn Fabrics Danielle Rasar Kelli Segars Joanne Tallman Charlie & Ute Collins Christine & David Stafford Raymond Goda Wycoff Insurance Tanya Griffey Tom & Mari Wuellner Soroptimist International of Sedro-Woolley Steve Garcia Brad & Kristen Tully Ann Thompson Mike McCallum Nancy Lawrence Darick Brewer Mark Miller Fidalgo Island Quilters Chuck & Toni Ruhl Safeway Greg & Karen Peterka Terry & Melissa Willard Safeway - Anacortes Eaglemont Golf Course Skagit Ready Mix/Smokey Point Concrete Colton Staker Banfield Pet Hospital Barrett Financial, Ltd. Paul & Shirley Rochon Pat Rimmer’s Les Schwab Tire Centers Jerry Carbert Sara Ireland
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PROUD TO SUPPORT Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County
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Reflections:
A SECOND HOME
KJ Evans
A
Club Director, La Conner
s a child, the Boys & Girls Club was like a second home for me; it’s where I learned social skills, and engaged in a number of recreational sports, but, most importantly, I learned how the positive influence of a mentor could change my entire perception of an organization. When I first became a member of the Boys & Girls Club, I thought it would be a complete waste of time. But, I soon realized that the club was a great place to be, there was nothing to dislike about the entire experience. The staff were absolutely amazing, and there was one individual that became a mentor to me right away. He and I are still very good friends, to this day. In fact, he will actually be a groomsmen in my wedding. But, as a kid, coming into an environment and seeing multiple basketball courts, an arcade room, games room, art room, learning center, and concession stand—that’s all any kid could dream for. Also, knowing we had access to the pool, and the baseball/softball field were additional bonuses. The Club has had a tremendous impact on the man that I have become in many ways, which is why I have a burning desire to have the exact same impact on the lives of our youth—having the impact that my mentor had on me, as a young Club kid. It wasn’t until I became the Club Director of the La Conner Boys & Girls Club that I realized how great of an impact the Club staff have on these members, each and every day. The joy and excitement we see on their faces as they enter those Boys & Girls Club doors, the countless moments of laughter being shared between members and staff. As I look back on my Boys & Girls Club memories, being a young Club member, I truly value and appreciate those individuals that were mentors to me, and it gives me a great deal of satisfaction knowing that I have the exact same impact on today’s youth. Needless to say, as a child I would’ve been lost without the support & guidance of my amazing parents, sisters, and Boys & Girls Club staff. I truly value and appreciate those individuals who have played an integral role in my upbringing.
Skagit Farmers Supply Betty Foster Sean & Diana Bartlett Alicia Huschka Sheri Miklaski Edward Small Sarah Murphy Angel of the Winds Casino Disneyland Resort Neighbors In Need Mary Johnson Susan B Macek Eagle Nest View, LLC Brian & Kathy Wolfe William Murray Brooks Windermere Foundation John & Carol Mosier Greg King Kurt Hefferline Retirement Inn Residence Council Karen Ray Joyce Siniscal Kohl’s Andrea Locati Beverly Dillon Roland & Ramie King John Howard DC Health Chiropractic The Encore Shoppe Sara & Matthew Gill Renee Stewart John & Kari Mathis Francis & Ann Olsen Pilgrim Congregational Church, UCC Richard Hudson Cook Road Shell Doug & Gay Woods Andrew Worcester Larry & Susan Forsythe Taproot Theatre Jennifer & Brandon Provalenko Harry & Judy Brown Holly Parkes Cassidy Dent Richard & Kathryn Bennett Ben Aragon Ebby Sabbagh Bob & Marian Sadler Frederick & Elaine Morton Rouw Insurance Agency Dana Orbe Ruby Parker Jay Kaemingk Michael & Christine Morrell Anacortes Construction Services, LLC Joshua Anderson Insurance, Inc Mary Ellen Byerly Barb Weymouth Rick the Peanut Man Foundation Brenden Jones Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Mike & Suzzane Casey Fred Meyer Pola Kelley Travis Collins Carol Strandberg Kathie Roll Dustin & Dreabon Knowles Children`s Museum of Skagit County Northwest Linings & Geotextile Products, Inc. Seattle Sounders F.C. Bart Borusinski Dianna Whitney Thurston Wolfe Winery Andy Porter Photography Mike Painter Donnie Measamer 17
UNDERSTANDING THE BUDGET Our 2016 Year-end Totals are generated in-house, and come before a complete audit is conducted. Clubs, in accordance with IRS regulations, and generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), operate in an accrual accounting system. However, without engaging a full-charge bookkeeper or accountant full-time, there are certain elements of our internal accounting system that process through in conjunction with our annual audit. To do so otherwise would be prohibitively expensive, and consume resources that can better be deployed in direct service of our mission to youth. This typically relates to depreciation, bequests, endowments, and assets held by the Skagit Community Foundation that are the items processed in this manner. For 2016, a strong end of year Campaign resulted in a small anticipated surplus for the year. With some funding down in areas, primarily related to Events & Fundraisers, staff worked hard to control costs to actual income, and the surge of investment in December, helped realize a net gain, however small, for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County. Major increases in expenses, in comparison to 2015, relate primarily to Personnel & Benefits, and Program Delivery. 2016 is the first full year of two new Club programs, at Mount Baker and La Venture Middle School, as well as increased benefit costs the organization has little control over. The vast majority of increase in Program Delivery relates to the addition of food service, providing lunches during the summer, and dinners during the school year, at many of our locations. These expenses are under-written in whole by the US Department of Agriculture who provides reimbursement to the Club organization for service. Those funds are currently represented in Miscellaneous income. As we begin 2017, we are holding the line in our budget in many areas, with one notable exception— Personnel & Benefits. Initiative 1433, raising the minimum wage, is the single largest represented addition to the budget. As a result of this, staff wages wholly across the Board had to be raised, and even then, there are now part-time staff making more per hour than their supervisors. This will continue to be a difficult piece for the organization moving forward, as we try to balance these elements with being able to increase services to youth in our community. 18
By the Numbers:
2016 YEAR END TOTALS*: INCOME & EXPENSES Income
Expenses
PERSONNEL & BENEFITS: $1,086,858 DONATIONS & CONTRIBUTIONS: $326,883 PROGRAM ADMIN & SUPPLIES $34,926
EVENTS & FUNDRAISERS: $342,337
OCCUPANCY: $61,688
PROGRAM DELIVERY: $109,872 GRANTS & OTHER INVESTMENTS: $606,113 TRANSPORTATION/TRAVEL: $13,717
MEMBERSHIP DUES/FEES: $176,123
INSURANCE: $26,633
FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION FEES: $31,129 PROGRAM REVENUE: $3,498
MARKETING: $3,366
OUTREACH: $8,110 MISCELLANEOUS: $31,167 FUNDRAISING EXPENSE: $85,120
IN-KIND CONTRIBUTIONS: $215,924
TOTAL: $1,702,045
IN-KIND EXPENSE: $215,924
TOTAL: $1,677,343
*Unaudited Projection, decimal points rounded to nearest whole number.
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CLUB INFO Any youth age 6, or entering into 1st Grade, up to age 18 can attend the Clubs. During the school year all of our Clubs operate Monday thru Friday, from 2pm to 6pm, except for the Sedro-Woolley Club, which operates till 6:30pm. *The Clubs also operate on select early release days and during school breaks. Select Fridays are Teen Nights. During the summer, Clubs are open Mon-Fri from 7am to 6pm. ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE PO Box 947 1605 William Way, Ste B Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-419-3723 (phone/fax) ANACORTES CLUB 904 6th St. Anacortes, WA 98221 360-588-9045 LA CONNER CLUB 305 N. Sixth St. La Conner, WA 98257 360-466-3672 MOUNT VERNON CLUB 1100 N. La Venture Rd. Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-428-6995 MOUNT BAKER CLUB 2310 E. Section St. Mount Vernon, WA 98274 360-428-6127 x32175 LA VENTURE CLUB 1100 N. La Venture Rd. Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-428-6109 x31177 SEDRO-WOOLLEY CLUB 915 McGarigle Rd. Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 360-856-1830 BURLINGTON SUMMER BREEZE* Maiben Park 1011 Greenleaf Ave. Burlington, WA 98233 20
*Some hours depend on the number of registered participants. *Summer only.
Worthington Foundation Diane Eiesland Dr. Teak Martin Wells Fargo Erin Shinn WA State Boys & Girls Clubs Assoc. Jason & Linda Tyler Allan & Sharon Gubrud Tara Dowd & Steven Nelson Jeff & Mary June Curtils Kurt & Brittany Swanson Robert & Rebecca Gates Skagit Aggregates LLC Bonnie & John Haley Gail Tuohig B.J. & Walter Carol NOIC Whidbey Island 1st Class Assoc. Johnny Picasso`s Boys & Girls Clubs of Benton & Franklin Counties Donna Johnson Howard & Amy Roberts H. Coleman McGinnis Dairy Queen Troy Kunz Rich Oickle Courtyard Gallery Williams & Nulle, PLLC, CPAs John & Diane Guinn Richard Livingston Eric & Emily Schuh Strandberg Custom Homes & Design Kay Eckenberg Mount Vernon Building Center Boyd & Ginny Bode Shell Puget Sound Refining Company Kyle Doran Town of La Conner Dan & Debbie Boffey Ian & Whitney Crawford David Ryberg & Joan Penney Blake Boatman Mark & Terry TRICO Companies, LLC Craig Crawford Keith & Rebecca Short La Conner United Methodist Church Kati Shannon Rotary Club of La Conner Aleisha Regan Anacortes Kayak Tours Lorena Cisneros Darrell Pearson Danielle & Michael Russell Todd & Elizabeth McNett-Crowl John & Renee Garman William & Susanna Epler Julie & Robert Stuart Gravity Bryan & Carol Harrison Rod & Karen Carter Valley Electric Co. of Mt. Vernon, Inc. Richard Olds Marni Shockey Empire Ale House Sushi By Chin Samish Tyee John & Kathy Parker Jim Eberhardt & Kaylene Farley Roy & Treva Hari Fran Thoreen Christina Jepperson William & Patricia Sarvis Kate Szurek Jack & Joan Hilde Fine Feathered Friends Subway Jeff Morris Lowman House LLC
Michael & Carol Herbert James & Cathryn Griffith Jim & Midge Hanson Bruce & Sylvia Gillette Bushey Pet Sitting Donnie & Kristen Keltz Bob Taylor Otterbox Azusa Farms & Gardens Stowe`s Shoes & Clothing Anacortes Lodge #1204 B.P.O.E Michael & Jessica Good Mark Thompson Robert & Susan Plumb Andrea Shick Melissa & Hugh Dougher Fisher Construction Group Justin Remaklus Hands of Steel Papa Murphy`s Anacortes Lynn Murphy Ron Cann Cheryl Bishop Wendie Granberg Ray & Carolyn Bloom Ken & Jenni Morrison Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gail Hvatum Gloria & Bud Fish Jeff & Linda Hendricks Family Foundation Brian & Kristia Poppe Frontier Industries, Inc. Sarenna Presnell John Percival Karen & Douglas Fryer Nell Thorn Restaurant & Pub Todd Rhonemus William & Patti Van Wieringen Mutual of America Ken & Florence Dahlstedt John Sandifer William Mercer Heritage Bank Colleen Sargent Patrick Harrington Michael & Colleen McClure Gordon Bruchner Ed & Judy Zavala John & Trish Archibald Cynthia Simonsen Rick & Meredith Machin Michale & Jamie Whiton William Whittemore Manresa Castle Philip Prud`homme Farmstrong Brewing Company WoodCraft Arts, LLC Kippy Strandberg Becky & John Taft Julie Buchanan Carol Tailor Debra & Douglas Lancaster Keith Magee Mike & Jessica Ferguson Richard & Ellen Raymond James & Glenda Hobbs Mary Perry Trendz Salon Laureen Atkinson Ron McHenry Dale & Monica Summers Angela Watts Evelyn Syverson David & Eddylee Scott Dwayne Lane’s North Cascade Ford Elliot Johnson Terry Johnson & Pamela Myers Brett & Eva Fox
Reflections:
THE CLUB THAT BEATS THE STREETS
Manny Smith
“
Director of Operations
The Club that Beats The Streets”—this was the motto for the Boys & Girls Clubs when I first joined as a member, way back in 1986. It was a perfect fit for a kid like me. Growing up in the poverty-stricken areas of Tucson, Arizona, my family had fallen largely to the epidemic of gangs and drugs, living a life on “the streets.” Thankfully, we moved into a house that was literally across the street from the Old Pueblo Boys & Girls Club. The Club quickly became my safe place to go to after school. It provided a place where I was able to build positive relationships with adults, and peer relationships with other kids from similar circumstances to me—two very critical things I did not have at home. It was probably the first time I started to realize that I was not alone in what I was experiencing in my life. Many alumni refer to the Club as their “home away from home.” For me, the Club became my home as I spent every possible minute I could there. First and foremost, it was one of the only places I felt safe, both physically and emotionally. I knew that the staff at the Club had my back at all times. It is where I learned basic values of respect, honor, and good character—traits that are essential to becoming a productive adult. The supportive relationships and lessons I got from the Club are the reason that I was the first of 6 kids in my family to graduate from high school, go to college, and have a career. I am the only one to not use drugs and to have never been in trouble with the law. Whenever I reflect back on my life, and wonder how I was able to make it this far, it always comes back to some lesson, program, or staff member I connected with at the Club. To this day, my best friends and mentors are people I met at the Club. As a professional, I realize that the Club set a foundation that equipped me with tools to have a career in youth development, providing the same type of support and lessons to today’s young people who have come from, and still experience, some of the most disadvantaged circumstances. For me as a kid, the Club truly did “beat the streets.” It also set a foundation that allowed me to accomplish so much in my adult life. Speaking from personal experience, great futures really do start here.
Laura Riquelme Linda Jones Erin Long Tulalip Casino & Resort Kevin Thomas Dean & Lisa Maxwell Showline Beagles Jeremy & Jamie McCullough Kyle Reep Highwaters Media Peoples Bank John & Bonney Howe Matt Marusich Tyler Koble Darcy Swetnam Bayside Specialties, Inc. Seattle Theatre Group Enterprise Rent-A-Car Best Buy Foundation Rich Weyrich & Betta Spinelli Peter Goldfarb Janna Haupt Kent & Christine Mathes Roger & Lynda Burke Gardner Orthodontics Penny Stubbs Diane Cocke North Cascades Health Council Sons of the American Legion Squadron 43 Randy & Debbie Larson Wayne & Barbara Bradford Flyers Restaurant Pelar Holmes American Alpine Institute Oliver-Hammer Barbara Kehoe B.J. Larson Brett & Laurie Fontes David & Syd Olausen Ann Dursch Wayne & Shelley Sligar Franklin Bjorseth Barbara Atterberry Scott & Tracy Dickison Sedro-Woolley True Value Hardware Allen & Janet Lindbo Andrew St Lawrence Joanne Bruland Laurie Gere Katie Carson Eric & Lynette Johnson Navsukh Enterprises, Inc. Tucker Family Foundation George Reeves & Rosann Wuebbels Jonathan Kull Matt Lehman Ken & Joan Liebscher Hugh & Diana Kendrick Danielle & Darrek Martin Mary LaFleur Safelite Auto Glass Foundation Brittney Crandall Sedro-Woolley Food Pavilion Expressions Art Gallery Noah & Taylor Bannister Jama Hiltz Steve Edwards Ted & Cyndie McCammant Peter Cutbill Jerald & Pamela Munson John & Nancy Darnton Emerson Nordmark & Kim Liebscher Ezaquiel Banda William & Myo Shears Rallye Auto Sales, Inc. Jenny & Adam Coleman Zane & Kelli Wyll Deb Bundy
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YOUTH OF THE YEAR
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cademic Success, Healthy Lifestyles, Good Character & Citizenship: these are the priority outcomes our Clubs work to develop in all of our Club members. Perhaps the single best manifestation of these results is experienced during Youth of the Year. Each year in January, the Skagit community comes together to celebrate youth during a waypoint in the Youth of the Year journey and timeline. Those that attend the Youth of the Year Dinner leave inspired, and often with a much deeper understanding as to the impact that Boys & Girls Club staff and volunteers have had in the lives of Club members.
Club members ages 14-18 are eligible to participate in the program that equips youth with important real world skills including resume preparation, essay composition, and speech development. They learn interview techniques, how to network in a business setting, plan appropriately to reach goals, and most of all, how to serve as a model leader to their peers. The Youth of the Year program, started in 1947, begins at the Club level with preparation in the fall that results in one Club member being selected at their Clubhouse Dinner with Friends, held in November. From there, the Club Youth of the Year’s continue honing their skills through repetition, workshops, and a retreat, held jointly with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Thurston County, and Boys & Girls Clubs of Benton and Franklin Counties. Club members ages 14-18 are eligible to participate in the program that equips youth with important real world skills including resume preparation, essay composition, and speech development. They learn interview techniques, how to network in a business setting, plan appropriately to reach goals, and most of all, how to serve as a model leader to their peers.
Pg 22, L to R: Erin H. (Anacortes Youth of the Year), Bobby Castro (2014 Youth of the Year), Charles B. (La Conner YOY), Paula B. (Sedro-Woolley YOY). Jacky Melanson and Justice Lively (2015 Skagit County & Washington State YOY). Annette Booth (Board Member), Geoffrey H. (Anacortes YOY Runner-up) and Kindred M. (Sedro-Woolley YOY Runner-up). Misty McIntire, Stephanie Hooper (Board Member) and Becky Taft (Board Member). Paula B. (2017 Skagit County YOY), Jazzelle E. (2016 Skagit County YOY) and Kindred M.. Erin H. (Anacortes YOY). Elijah P. (La Conner YOY Runner-up). Pg 23: The gang at the YOY retreat in Ellensberg: Jazzelle, Charles, Charlie, Patrick Dougher (Sedro-Woolley Teen Coordinator), Erin, Kindred, Geoffrey, Paula, and Tori Grace (Anacortes Teen Coordinator).
Bill Irning Carla Wood Justin & April Ward Georgetown Brewery Lou Ann Davis Savi Bank Yoshihiro Okamoto Suzanne RothMeyer Photography Kim & Shane Walley Suzette & James Richards Paula Brownrigg Pacific WoodTech Corporation Smiley Insurance Sedro-Woolley Police Benevolent Fund Karen Gallardo Heather Powell Steve & Felisa Hoglund Lora & Richard Hiltz Brian & Laura Faley BYK Construction, Inc Peter Donovan Josh & Mallory Anfinson Michael & Andrea Rogers Servpro Of Skagit Deception Distillery Germaine Kornegay Don Wick Cottage Hobby House Jennifer Barnwell Gerry & Susan Christensen Tom Pasma & Sue Sultze Rob & Nancy Tiffany Bill Poindexter Jill & Daniel Boudreau Soroptimist International of Anacortes Emily & Robert Messmer James Hobbs Karl Yost Lorenzo’s John & Carmen Voth Skagit Transportation Michael & Elizabeth Jackets John & Colleen McIntyre United Way of Skagit County Sheila Bean Brian Hanrahan Patrice Blakeway Thomas Lebovsky & Jane Billinghurst Scott Pringle Dennis & Melissa Boe Soroptimist International of La Conner Connie & Michael Russell Dick & Susan Straathof Swinomish Golf Links Paul Godfrey Katie Mauricio Bertelsen Winery Erik & Jennifer Crawford Tracy Dugas Sylvia Hosford Len & Jimmie Lee Dawson Cookson Beecher & Dean Harrington Nathan Skinner MillerCoors Robert Leber Rick & Karen Pitt Jon & Teresa Ronngren James & Megan Taylor Mike & Rebecca Love Birch Equipment & Sales Claudette Gubrud Barbara Dahlstedt Kiwanis - Anacortes Noon Club Charles Fine Jewelry Anthony & Kimberlee Smith Art Jensen Jack & Dena Poling Rolf & Mary Oxos
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Lynn Wade The Ledger Dorothy Ann Downs & Robert Raymon Dan & Nicole Hoffman Suellen Lemmon Christopher & Cassandra King John & Sarah Ney Marylee Owings Dennis & Mary Staberg Susan Wilson Howard & Carol Pellett Aztec Self Storage Janice & Norman Vigre Jack Sather Kristi & John Chambers Cecil Thomas Gregg & Lea Davidson John & Tammie White Mary Gleason Rebecca & William Murray Brynne & Pat Kelly Ooh La La Salon Gateway Transmissions, Inc Josh Bluhm Terje & Jessica Culp Mike Blade Chad Fisher Construction, LLC The Rustic Rooster Tom & Caree Brownfield Chelsea Bowman Michael & Dana Webb Soroptimist International of Fidalgo Island Jennifer & Charles Hardin Kim & Steven Stafford Donald L Fenton Puget Sound Energy Foundation Tom & Fay Shane Lowe’s Store Henry’s Humdingers Scott Johnson Jerry Kopp Sharon Wright K&H Integrated Print Solutions KS Excavating, Inc Eagles - FOE #2069 Rick Trelstad Jacqueline Zoolkoski Judd & Black Herb & Judy Hansen Bill & Laurie Wallace Sherry Hendrix Washington State Auto Dealers Services, Inc Frontier Building Supply The Brown Lantern Alehouse Kim Gardner Land Title & Escrow Company of Skagit & Island County Patricia Gordaoff Mary Staley Montana Sporting Club Mike & Mary Stepanski Alyeska Design, LLC Colleen Smiley Barbara Bear Scott & Harmony Bahr Joyce Nagel Mildred Metzger Michael & Rita King Dan & Marie Donat Day Creek Sand & Gravel Eleanor Kuenzi Clay Taylor Espresso Connection Thomas & Deborah Moser Cedar Country Lumber Tim & Sarah Van Dyken John Roozen Will & Diane Reichardt Rob & Erin Reiger 24
This year, one of the judges made an observation that resonated deeply with staff: They knew that Clubs did good things, but it wasn’t until seeing the process up close that they realized how important Clubs were to youth, the need for this type of service, and how irreplaceable Clubs really are in the community. For 2016, we had three Clubhouse Youth of the Year, and four runners-up. Each story was different, but within them common themes and experiences the Club members identified as changing them for the better. Acceptance—through being welcome and knowing they always had a place to talk to someone, in a safe environment. Opportunity—heard time and again as several reflected on their experience this last summer on our first major College Tour. Finally, Staff—a deep, personal relationship with one or more staff members who have helped to shape their personalities, and who have provided them guidance during their life. The Club member selected to represent Skagit County immediately begins preparation for the next stage—the state program in March. It begins on a Tuesday evening, with all the organizational Youth of the Year joining together in ice breakers and some fun. First thing Wednesday morning, the youth go to the Governor’s Mansion for a breakfast in their honor where they are joined by legislative representatives from all over the state. While there, the Governor’s Community Service Scholarship award is presented, and all youth are introduced officially. A whirlwind 36 hours follows the visit to Olympia, and includes meeting community and civic leaders, engaging in vibrant discussion, polishing up on interview and speech delivery skills, going through another round of judging, and finally, one youth being crowned as the Washington State Youth of the Year, earning a $5,000 scholarship, and opportunity to represent the state at the Pacific Region event in June, in Los Angeles, CA. The Pacific Region Youth of the Year earns an additional $40,000 in college scholarships, and travels to Washington, DC in the fall to meet the President in the Oval Office, and participate in the final round that crowns our Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Youth of the Year. Representing Skagit County for 2017 is Paula Banda, an 8th grader from Cascade Middle School in Sedro-Woolley. While rare to have someone so young selected, Paula meets all the qualification requirements, and made a significant impression on the judges. To determine a winner, seven judges received advance materials that include biographical information, essays, and supporting letters and other materials. A rubric is provided for the entire cycle, and the judges come together to hear speeches, and interview all the candidates, the day before our Youth of the Year Dinner. Because of the quality of our Club members participating, for the second year in a row, just two points separated winner and runner-up. This year, one of the judges made an observation that resonated deeply with staff: They knew that Clubs did good things, but it wasn’t until seeing the process up close that they realized how important Clubs were to youth, the need for this type of service, and how irreplaceable Clubs really are in the community. We are thankful for our judges, for staff simply could not make the choice themselves. Perhaps a wonderful testament to this is Paula’s own opening line in her
It’s that very confidence that is leading Paula to work toward a career as a lawyer. She has plans to attend Skagit Valley College for Running Start before setting sights on her aspirational goal, Harvard University. There is no doubt that Paula will reach that goal before accomplishing many others and make a significant mark in the world. one of her essays: “My Club experience is a lot like everyone else’s; amazing, impactful, wonderful, unforgettable, and life changing. It is also uniquely mine because of the amazingly awesome staff at The Club and all the unforgettable friendships I’ve gained over the years.” Paula holds the SMART Girls program high in her list of reasons for success. “SMART Girls is the program that has probably had the biggest impact on making me into who I am today. I learned a lot of lessons in SMART Girls. It taught me to talk to someone when I need to and not just keep my emotions bottled up. It is also where I learned how important it is to be respectful and to be confident.” It’s that very confidence that is leading Paula to work toward a career as a lawyer. She has plans to attend Skagit Valley College for Running Start before setting sights on her aspirational goal, Harvard University. There is no doubt that Paula will reach that goal before accomplishing many others and make a significant mark in the world. While we celebrate Paula, we also honor the achievements of Charles from La Conner, and Erin from Anacortes, who represented their Clubhouses passionately and ably. Being named Youth of the Year is the greatest recognition a Club member can achieve, and all our candidates are worthy of such an honor. To learn more about the Youth of the Year program, or be placed into consideration as a judge for 2018, please contact CEO Ron McHenry at rmchenry@ skagitclubs.org or 360-419-3723, x3.
Vanguard Charitable Endowment Program Mark Kaufman Todd & Debbie Thompson Dolores Snelson Katelynn Sullivan Maggie Potter Linda & Jim Turner Bruce & Margaret Evertz Randall & Carol Garberg Vicki Stasch Robert Gruber Fidalgo Bay Coffee Charlie & Karen Wend Tom Hammack Carl`s Towing Kevin Anderson James Cornell Kiwanis- Burlington-Edison Robert & Jane Hyde Paul Benz Darrel & Bernice Homan Skagit River Steel & Recycling Justin Campbell Julia De La Cerda GAP Valley Shine Distillery Skagit Valley Food Co-Op Dagnija Johnson David & Armanda Martinez Foothills Toyota Janicki Logging & Construction Frank Marzec Tom Griffin & Lani Donohoe Wyman Park Levon & Dorothy Matson Dakota Creek Industries Norman & Shirley Cross Kjell Carlsen Wendy Rohrbacher E & E Lumber Michael & Lisa Janicki Gary & Christine Rood Anacortes Aktion Club Christy Hawley Austin’s Pet Grooming Sound Development Group, LLC Dawn & Jody Latimer Dorothy Hughes Quantum Construction Inc. Susan Duffy Tamara Straub Thomas Nichols Ristretto Coffee Lounge & Wine Bar Westminster Presbyterian Church Erin & Scott Welliver Ken & Susan Johnson Laura Swenson The Cambia Employee Giving Campaign Dale & Elaine Gorsegner Noah Richards Peter Cisneros Candi Newcombe Anthony Young ServiceMaster Clean by Roth, Inc. Knutzen Farms Louis Auto Glass, Inc Tom & Pam Allen Patrick Mullen Gene & Marilyn Derig Pat & Kathy Rogers Glen & Susan McInelly Ed Alskog Anita Mitchell Courtney Walters Oasys Avenue Catering John King - Highwaters Media K&H Integrated Printing Solutions
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Reflections:
THE MOUNT BAKER CLUB B
After that, we focus on eing a leader in the their passions for writBoys & Girls Club ing, science, art, sports, 21st Century Program culture, film, health, and at Mount Baker Middle more. Through our Youth School is amazing. Having Mary Sue Walker of the Week, Youth of the spent over 10 years as a Club Director, Mount Baker Month, and Jr. Youth of the classroom teacher, I value how this program allows me to be a mentor—time and Year programs we emphasize and recognize the good character and citizenship development of our members. energy I rarely had as a teacher. Monthly family nights allow us to connect with famiAt Mount Baker’s “Grizzly Hangout” Boys & Girls Club, lies, providing opportunities to connect with community my team of passionate and skilled staff and I deliver resources and support, while celebrating the accomhigh quality, engaging programs based on the interests plishments of our youth in a public way. I am grateful to of our members. We focus on the multiple dimensions of belong to the Mount Baker Middle School Program, as our members. We support their academic development it allows me to bring my passion for youth development by working closely with teachers and counselors, and into the school setting and help our members develop in devote a full hour to supporting their academic growth. powerful and meaningful ways.
Reflections:
THE LAVENTURE CLUB L
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ooking back on the Experience. Each staff last nine months at member has brought their the LaVenture “Flying Falown unique strength to our cons” Boys & Girls Club, programs, crafting meanit has been both a great ingful connections with Brian Gustafson working, and learning expeClub members, whether it’s Club Director, LaVenture rience. Much of our success a great smile, caring attican be credited to the Club staff, for their hard work tude, or helping our members succeed academically. and dedication to giving our members an Optimal Club Each day, staff work hard to improve on the quality, not just quantity.
Great programs and activities, such as Power Hour, Triple Play, The Arts, and STEM are key to our Club and organization success. Power Hour, a program that focuses on homework completion with Staff mentoring, has had an impact on many members’ grades. We have received appreciation letters from parents and teachers that have noticed how their child’s academic performance has improved because of our program.
Auto • Home • Life • Retirement
ANNETTE BOOTH • 360-848-0939
“Good morning Brian,
annettebooth@allstate.com • 130 S 15TH STE 102 MOUNT VERNON
I just wanted to take a moment to thank you and your staff for all the hard work that goes on in your after school program! Both of my daughters Kaylah and Leia attend Flying Falcons on a regular base and I’ve notice a huge improvement, especially with my oldest Kaylah (she’s the one that needed the help!). She’s still working on missing assignments but they’ve definitely gone down, and she’s getting better grades because of it. Both of my daughters enjoy going so that alone tells me how great this program is. I know they focus on work the first hour and then they get to do something fun after working hard. Again thank you for helping our struggling students.”
Protect your world
~Yesenia M.- Club Parent
“I can’t hold back my appreciation and respect anymore; Flying Falcons Club, you have decreased my classes’ missing work by over 70% in the last 2 weeks. Students are turning in their missing work with pride in their eyes and an obvious weight lifted off of their shoulders.
proud to support Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County www.skagitbank.com
The work you are doing is 1. So important! 2. Meeting more than just homework needs of students. 3. Giving them structure and safety. 4. Making a difference everyday. 5. Helping students with organization. 6. Holding them to high standards and helping them succeed at that level. I see so many teachers supporting this group as they support us. I love that! Keep up the great work EVERYONE!”
~Karen M.- Teacher at LaVenture Middle School
I am very humbled to receive such encouragement! Our success is a credit to our amazing team—all of us working together, LaVenture Club Staff, Club members, Teachers, Parents, and Volunteers, as well as Club management, our Board of Directors, Donors, and the Skagit County community at large. We create GREAT Futures for our youth together. 27
PROUD TO SUPPORT Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County BRINDERSON.COM 905 Squalicum Way, Unit 105, Bellingham, WA 98225 • 360-734-3273
COLLEGE TOUR INSPIRES NEW HEIGHTS A
fter months of preparation, a small caravan of vehicles departed Skagit County on Monday, August 15, 2016 on a trip that for many, would be completely life changing. Thanks to funding from the Tesoro Corporation Foundation, 50 teens and staff were set to visit four universities and two regional
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technical and vocational trade schools. In just five days. In four different states. Clubs have three priority outcomes, that we endeavor to elicit in each and every member served; Academic Success is one of them. In the Boys & Girls Club movement, this means graduating from High School ready
for college, trade school, military service, or full-time employment. For so many of our youth, obstacles are present that can significantly inhibit their realization of this outcome. Some are very real, but most of the obstacles are simply perceptual, as our kids are often the first in their families to have the opportunity to achieve a higher education and choose their path in life based on their passion and interests, instead of simply what’s available. The first day began early, with a 7:00am departure from Skagit County. Just before the bus arrived at Central Washington University, the advance vehicles finished preparation of 51 lunches so that when the kids bounded off that bus, they’d be able to eat and enjoy their first tour of the trip. After seeing all the wonderful options available to future Wildcats, the convoy continued on with a stop at Perry Technical Institute in Yakima, WA to see a different side of post-secondary education at a premier place of learning. During the trip, not only was there a lot of road-side and parking lot preparation of meals, the network of Boys & Girls Clubs was engaged for support, and
When youth arrived back in Skagit
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County late Friday night, they did so armed with significant knowledge of not
Rental • Sales • Equipment • Tools • Lawn & Garden
only all the pathways available to them for success, but also what tools and goals were needed to secure their own #GREATFuture. helped to keep costs minimal which truly allowed a trip of this magnitude to even occur. Perhaps the favorite Clubhouse sleepover that week was the first night in Prosser, WA, the former Club of current Skagit County Club CEO Ron McHenry. A joint teen night was held, and included Prosser Rotary Club members presenting a full barbecue spread at a special swim night that left everyone fulfilled and exhausted. Tuesday was the longest on the road, with more than 400 miles covered between Prosser, and Twin Falls, ID. There, Club members talked excitedly about their college tour held earlier in the day at Boise State University while enjoying a pizza party at Boys & Girls Clubs of the Magic Valley. While at BSU, a full tour of the campus kept kids on their feet, and included a visit to Continued on page ...23 the smurf turf. 29
Where the Locals Go for any project, big or small. Mount Vernon - Anacortes - Bellingham
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Boise was also the stop that highlighted the importance of all the preparation, and need for additional vehicles, when one Club member sprained his finger while playing catch on the field. Because of regulations concerning driver time, and other logistics, the bus couldn’t stay, but it was clear our young man needed more than simple first aid. Thanks to the BSU Health Center, and the staff who stayed behind in the trailing vehicle, he was safe, and so were the rest of our kids, who were content on the bus headed to Twin Falls. A highlight, and once-in-a-lifetime experience for most, including staff, took place on Wednesday following a stop at Eastern Idaho Technical College. The itinerary was tight, but one simply can’t get that close and not make room for a trip to Yellowstone National Park. There wasn’t much time for exploration, but all were in awe when honored to be present for quite a show from the Old Faithful Geyser. Tours of both Montana State University and the University of Montana were on tap for Thursday, and perhaps a bit surprisingly, gleaned the strongest response from our teens. They loved the size of the schools, as well as proximity to communities that were large, but not overwhelming. Many commented on the beauty of the area, and weather, though were also reminded that Montana was a very different place in the winter. A visit to the other school with a vividly colorful Football field began wrapping up the trip on Friday, as Club teens descended on the “Inferno” at Eastern Washington University. Lunch was at the Gingko Petrified Forest, overlooking the Columbia Gorge, and providing a perfect bookend to the STEM-centered week long journey. When youth arrived back in Skagit County late Friday night, they did so armed with significant knowledge of not only all the pathways available to them for success, but also what tools and goals were needed to secure their own #greatfuture. More than that, Club staff had been pretty sneaky and managed to impart other important life lessons along the way: Personal hygiene is incredibly important, especially when traveling in groups; Always leave a place better than you found it; Do unto others as you would have them do unto you, because you never know when you’re gonna be stuck in a small space for hours at a time; Take time to appreciate the world and nature around you, and position yourself to be able to take advantage of it in the future. Just a few of many ways Skagit County Clubs stand apart in youth development—a deep understanding by Club professionals to maximize each moment as a learning opportunity. Plans are underway for 2017 already, and this year’s trip, while definitely shorter in mileage, will still pack a punch, be centered around STEM, and include an amazing moment as the trip begins in Newport Beach, OR, prime location for viewing the total solar eclipse occurring on Monday, August 21st.
Scholten’s Equipment Inc. Heritage Flight Museum Robin Lindstrom Darrell & Patricia Pienta Keith & Cyndi Sorestad Sundarah Hammontree Scott & Angie Rutherford Skagit Island San Juan School Retirees Association Angel & Diane Demeroutis Brown Line, LLC Steven & Jan Massey Matthew & Heather Miller Whidbey Coffee Kevin Johnson Les & Fay Huggins Dave Wilder Arty & Elinor Nakis Brandmuscle Ken & Debbie Cheney Alice Bohnker Insurance Dale & Marlene Klein Hampton Inn & Suites Josh & Stephanie Hoines Lakeside Industries Walmart Al Chandler BrandQuery Rachael Sylte Michael & Anita Roozen Donna Sitts Amy Angelli Kristin Knopf & Brian Hanners Trevir & Mindy Faley Amanda Cecotti Madeleine Roozen Margaret Cartwright Fred & Marilyn Buckenmeyer Enchanted Florist Chuck & LuAnne Burkhart Mary Davis Lighting Blank L+T Martin Commercial Fueling Clyde & Norma Clay John L. Scott Anacortes Chamber of Commerce Dunkin & Bush Humane Society of Skagit County Carrie Wallace Dwayne Lane’s Skagit Ford Subaru Wendy Fauver John & Michele Pope United Way of King County Gary & Claudean Talbert Dick Gudmunson Christopher & Jennifer Cram Holly Giles Arthur Watson Leanne Shannon Temcov Foundation Kiwanis Club of La Conner Vince Cicotte Swinomish Casino & Lodge The Arthur W. Perdue Foundation, Inc Marcella & Kenneth Baker Don & Kay Gordon Ron & Anne Smith Image360 Michelle Cervantes John Piazza Jr. Construction & Remodeling Josh & Sarah Arquitt Darrell & Sherilyn Skiles Grocery Outlet Ian & Theresa Faley Strauss Jewelers Just Peachy Yogurt Richard & Betsy Humphrey State Street Deli Usborne Books
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IN MEMORIAM OF JACK GUBRUD J
20 years, before his passing on ohn Gubrud, known as Jack to August 25th, 2016. everyone, was born during the height of the depression in North Mr. Gubrud was a founding member Dakota, before his family moved to of the Skagit Valley Youth AssociaSkagit Valley just two years later, tion, which would ultiin 1937. A 1953 gradmately become the Boys uate of Mount Vernon & Girls Clubs of Skagit High School, Jack also Mr. Gubrud was a founding member County, with the first Club attended Skagit Valley opening during the sumof the Skagit Valley Youth Association, College before serving a mer of 1997. Participation which would ultimately become the term in the United State has truly been a family Marine Corps. While in Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County, affair, with Claudette the service, Jack married serving as a direct volunwith the first Club opening during the Claudette Coleman, his teer, engaging youth for high school sweetheart. summer of 1997. many years, Colleen as an integral piece of fundraisAfter graduating with a ing initiatives, especially a degree in accounting and working at the Shell Oil Refinery, Jack would drive very successful Gala and Golf Tournament, and Mike, away in his new found career, all puns intended. Start- following in his father’s footsteps, as a member of our ing with a used car lot, he would grow into a Chrysler Board of Directors. dealership and then started Gubrud Valley Datsun. In reviewing historical documents recently, one finds Jack was instrumental in establishing I-5 Auto World Jack’s handwriting everywhere—quite literally. In in Burlington, and served his community through many memorandum and correspondence, it’s easy to see Board positions and service organizations. During all how his mind for business, combined with such a this, he started a family, and loved his kids—Mike, strong passion for youth, provided a striking balance Mark, and Colleen. for the fledging non-profit organization, sometimes Jack also grew another family; one that would impact faced with quite difficult decisions. That’s not too surthe lives of many throughout Skagit County for nearly prising though, considering how often stories of Jack
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L to R: Claudette & Jack Gubrud at the 2015 Annual Breakfast. Jack and friends at 2013 Annual Gala. Joyce Nagel, Claudette, & Jack at the 1996 Boys & Girls Clubs of America National Convention in Las Vegas. Jack & Claudette with members of the Mount Vernon Club at the 2014 Dinner with Friends.
Gubrud still come out when Club leaders visit community members to update on progress. Most current staff are new to the organization, joining in just the last three years. However, Jack’s contribution is so significant that his legend is palpable and goes deep into our history. It’s because of this that Club staff take so seriously the legacy that Jack, and many others, have created, that inspire Club professionals to fulfill the mission of Boys & Girls Clubs to the best possible outcome: to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. Unfortunately, Club leadership was at a pre-scheduled Conference the day of Jack’s memorial, and could not attend. Thankfully, we were able to celebrate his memory the night before during a dinner with 500 other leaders from throughout the Boys & Girls Club movement, assembled in Phoenix to engage in training and professional development. Jack was recognized on stage for his contributions to youth, and his leadership as a Club founder and former Board President. On behalf of the thousands upon thousands of kids who have benefited, and will continue to do so because of Jack’s moxie, our Board of Directors, past and present, and all Club professionals, we offer a hearty thank you to Mr. John V “Jack” Gubrud for making “a place for youth” in Skagit County.
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L to R: The first logo for the Skagit Valley Youth Association created by Jack. Claudette & Jack at the 2013 Annual Gala. Joyce Nagel, Jack, Blase Dillman, and Claudette at the Soroptomist International of La Conner, 1997 Microbrew Festival to raise funds to build a Club in La Conner. Claudette & Jack at the at the 3rd Annual Golf Tournament in 1998.
Chuckanut Manor Peter & Laurel Browning John & Katy Janicki Wendy Cobb Joshua Serrano Mark Amano La Conner School District Kaia & Jason Matheny Steve Hayford North Cascade Veterinary Hospital Schwab Charitable Tari Roche Jean Champagne Cory Ertel Towne Foundation Skagit Valley Tulip Festival Lincoln Theatre Symetra Jack & Carole Straathof Doug & Laurie Lundgren Cargill Incorporated John & Marie Erbstoeszer Betty Rockwell Scott & JoAnn Blade John Doyle Christ Episcopal Church Kris Schramm Sharon Stafford Darrell & Elizabeth Heisler Jerry Chastain Jamie Maloney Bill Nutting & Jessie Tapp-Nutting Macy’s, Inc. Sandi Andersen Karl & Debra Pankaskie University of Washington Roger Buck & Brenna Zavala Skagit Valley Marine Corps League-Detach. 1043 Kevin & Melissa Sullivan Jaci Chamness Ronald & Sherry Oberst Torolf & Anna Torgersen Barbara Legas Scott Terrell DreamChasers RV Adara Salon Central Moving & Storage Swinomish Indian Tribal Community Jim & Linda Hauptman Hughes Law Group PLLC Mark & Alison Miller Rob Preinesberger Thorne Metal Studio Materials Testing & Consulting, Inc. Seanna Faley James & Melissa Kirk LeAnne Wiseman Mount Vernon School District #320 Take2seconds K.C. & Angela Freeberg TruckVault, Inc. Deb & Jason Matier Anne Braaten Traviz Hernandez Rick & Angela Davidson Anacortes Community Health Council Susan Krienen Schuh Farms Roger Peterson Dan & Sandi Sims Lynne Jordan Scott & Cinde Wakeman Kara Moore Suzan DelBene Jacqueline Beamer Jim Davison Jennifer Wilson Ronald & Joni Swanson 34
Reflections:
GROWING UP WITH THE CLUBS
Alivia Holman Club Director, Sedro-Woolley
G
rowing up in a single parent household taught me responsibility at an early age—skills that I picked up at my local Boys & Girls Club. They taught us the importance of school, friendships, and a healthy lifestyle. I would go in each day, scan in, and go to the computer lab to start and finish my homework. If I ever got stuck, or just needed to be challenged, there was always a staff member to help me out. Having responsible adults around helped me become successful in school. This took some stress off of my mom, because my brother was the complete opposite when it came to doing homework. Sometimes my brother and I didn’t get along, but what siblings get along all the time?! At the Club, we were able to put aside our differences because of the rules that we had to obey. I credit the Club’s standard of conduct in helping me develop the strong, healthy relationship I have with my brothers, today. When my mom married and became pregnant, the Boys & Girls Club was a second home to me. Scott, the Director, was always there to help me and my brother when our stepfather forgot to pick us up, because he decided to go out drinking after work. Scott made sure that our schoolwork was done and that we had something to snack on until our mom got to the Club to pick us up. When I was in 5th grade my mom got a divorce, because the constant drinking and fighting wasn’t healthy for my brothers and me. Between the court hearings, therapy, and visitations, there just wasn’t time to go to the Club anymore. This had an effect on my social life at this time, but fortunately, I had two really good school friends that I could talk to. It was hard for me to leave the Club when I entered 6th grade because of all the friendships I had made. I missed being able to just be a kid, and not having to worry about any problems going on at home. When it was just my mom, brothers, and me, I had to start helping out with homework, babysitting, laundry, dishes, and getting everyone to bed. It was harder than my mom always made it look. She had two jobs at this point, so all the skills of responsibility, time management, and patience that I had learned from the Club helped me get by. When I finally made it back to the Boys & Girls Club, it was a weight lifted off of my shoulders. Without the Boys & Girls Club, I can honestly say I wouldn’t be the women I am today. The Club helped me when I had to grow up at a young age. Experiencing hardships has taught me that everyone is going through something, and we all need support. I wouldn’t give up working with children for the world.
Thomas & Maggie Thompson Robin`s Pet Salon Sedro-Woolley Chamber of Commerce CPI Plumbing & Heating Animal House Pet Grooming Pat Hammond Ken & Jame Witzel Dan Berard Annabelle Rockwood Eleven Vexler & Richard Brocksmith Rodd & Aimee Frantz Albert Clay Bob Cromack Patrick & Jean Ward Aldi Kllogjeri Lynn Pugh Wendy Gray & Mac Madenwald All Rivers & Saltwater Charters Michael Fredlund Chuck Gorecki Warren & Linda Walz John McArdle Brandi Hendrickson Interwest Construction Inc. Natalie Johnson Whatcom Community Foundation North Cascade Seventh Day Adventist Church Shane & Amy Collins John Leaver Il Granaio Brandy & Scott Kohlmeier Altria Edco, Inc. Skagit Bank KarMart USA for Kids Dale & Randi Freidig Roberta Hubbell Tasha St Clair Dolores & Tom Holtcamp Beverly Whitsell Shirlee Christensen Kyle & Angela Lindsay Richard & Linda Nelson Roger Small Patrick Garrett Douglas & Linda MacGregor Felt Family Dale & Susan Ragan Duane & Nancy Clark Dr. Paul & Gina Williams Pat Severin Patricia Odlin TriPower Construction Mike & Dawn Durham Jim & Mary Scott Pamela Keller Robert & Janet Gubrud James & Joyce Nichols Melissa Pearson James & Joyce Anderson Ruth & Dean Smiley Guemes Women Fellowship Mike & Dianne Crawford JB Smoove Joseph Bee N-Viro Lawn Care Trident Seafood Corporation Bella Soul Haggen Food & Pharmacy Karin Baldwin Beverly Bowen Jason Easton Janet Lightner Columbia Bank Seattle Mariners Ed Perry Snelson Companies, Inc. George & Suzanne Santino
Proud to Support Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County 400 E. Fairhaven Ave. Burlington 360-757-7000 • mgubrud@farmersagent.com
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2016 IN REVIEW
JAN FEB MAR JUN Breakfast for GREAT Kids
Philanthropy was in abundance, as more than $105k was raised for Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County that morning.
MAY
Youth of the Year Jazzelle Elias, of Sedro-Woolley, is selected to represent Skagit County as Youth of the Year.
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School Supplies for Club Kids Thanks to an investment from the Argus Fund, 450 backpacks filled with school supplies were distributed to kids at six Club locations.
Windermere Work Party Skagit Valley Windermere agents held a Volunteer Day at the Sedro-Woolley Boys & Girls Club were they painted, cleaned, & landscaped inside and outside the Club.
Keys for Kids For this 2nd Annual event an additional night is added, increasing the fun and funding with over $40k raised over both nights.
2016 IN REVIEW
JUL SEPT OCT NOV Burlington Summer Breeze
At Maiben Park in Burlington, in partnership with the local agencies, Club staff serve up free lunches, and fun to approximately 50 youth a day
Dinner with Friends
AUG
Hosted by Club members, attendees witness presentations by each Club’s Youth of the Year hopefuls, and Club youth are honored and recognized for their achievements.
Farmer’s Share College Tour 50 teens visited four universities and two regional technical and vocational trade schools, as well as national parks & monuments.
Back to School Clubs start the year strong with all six Clubs ready to serve the kids that need them most.
An outdoor Farmer’s Share, orchestrated by Helping Hands Food Bank, was held at the Mount Vernon & Sedro-Woolley Clubs, where Club youth and their families were able to stock up on free fresh vegetables and fruits.
DEC Clubs Reach 1,700 Served With 900 youth served in 2013, 1,200 in 2014, and 1,500 in 2015, the trend is clearly growing— Youth are voting for Clubs. 37
Reflections:
THE MOUNT VERNON CLUB F
ifteen years ago I Valley College, Western stepped into the Washington University, or Mount Vernon Boys & Girls have graduated. What a Club for the first time, as testament to the impact a part-time Program Lead. the Club has on our kids. Angela Freeberg What was intended as a For me it is a powerful Club Director, Mount Vernon short-term part time job experience to see these turned into a career and passion—a place I love to former Club kids effecting change in the next genergo each day. The greatest reward has been watching ation because of what they experienced when they Club members grow from young children into young spent time in the Club as children. adults, and being able to witness our mission fulfilled as they becoming productive, caring, respon- Two months ago I invited Isaac, a former Club Alumni sible citizens. Over the past couple of years I have and Mount Vernon Youth of the Year to help with had the opportunity to see many of those Club mem- this year’s Youth of the Year interviews and judging. bers graduate from High School, head off to College, I had the opportunity to know Isaac my first two years and start careers and families. I can still see their working at the Club. Isaac shared openly with the Club little faces as excited, sometimes mischievous, 6 or 7 members and fellow judges his Club experience as year olds running around the Club. The phrase I hear a youth. He shared that he was here watching with so often from these kids is that the Club has been excitement the day they broke ground to build the their “home away from home.” It is where they have Mount Vernon Club. When the Club opened, he came worked through difficult times and celebrated suc- every single day after school. He said that if it wasn’t cesses. The Club has been a part of their childhood for having the Club to come to every day that his life would have been much different, and he wouldn’t be and shaping who they are. where he is today if he had not had the Club. He is curOne of the things I have loved the most is seeing former rently finishing his Criminal Justice degree at Skagit Club kids come back to work at the Club. The Mount Valley College. I love that “kid,” and am so proud of Vernon Club currently has 4 former Club Alumni work- him. As a Club professional, we don’t always get to ing for the Club. Each of these staff members experi- hear or see the success stories, but it was a reminder enced the Club as a kid. Their memories of the Club, of how every child who enters our doors is precious. I, and the impact it had on them, has given them the along with each of the staff and volunteers, have an desire to give back in the capacity as a caring adult, opportunity every day to lift a child up, to build their and to be a mentor and positive role model. Each of self-esteem, encourage them, and put them on a path these former Club kids are successful adults. They to a great future. What could be a greater purpose were AVID Students, Mount Vernon High School Grad- than that? uates, and are all currently either enrolled in Skagit
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Shellie Eubanks Christine Johnson Norman & Patricia Dahlstedt Raymond & Stephanie Freier Island Hospital Chad Fisher Allstate Foundation Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Jerry & Eva Fader Anacortes Sunrisers Kiwanis Steven & Sarah Dahl Semrau Engineering & Surveying Committee to Elect Jason Easton 2014 Carolyn Howe Burton Jewelers Boundary Bay Brewing Co. Lin & Carla Tucker State of Washington Gary & Janet Davis Lisa Bond William & Ellen Wiegand Kelly Tuohig Richard Henderson Kalie Canfield Robert & Erica Pickett Lisa Hoover John & Mary Ferlin Jennifer Robbins William & Annette Boerner Torey & Melissa Nelson Mike & Victorian Gubrud Don Fenkner Homer & Rosette Dawson Jason & Bobbilyn Larry Carr Von & Elizabeth Kuehn Josh & Marna Carpenter Linda Brookings Tri Power Construction LLC Madison MacKenzie Jo Finkbohner Nancy Wong & Thomas Decker The Simmons Insurance Group R.J. & M. Lodolce Vince & Terry Oliver R. H. & G.C. Freier Trever & Candace McGhee Andy & Dawn Mayer Kari Ranten Camp Fire Samish Brooklyn Denero Columbia Distributing Morgan’s Espresso Carl & Betty Romtvedt Stephen Pogline Diane L Yates Susanna Franklin Mary Huff Kathy Foster Jennifer Ecker Mark & Julie Wenzel Odyssey Performance Enhancement Network Trumpeter Public House Gary & Judy Shand Jim & Kathy Stone Nels Strandberg & Colleen Craig Sandra & Ryan Nootenboom Mark & Pam Estvold Jim & Carma DeGroot Grant Feek Julie Foort Terri & Clifford Hodgins La Conner Senior Center Matt Halliday Marjorie Davis Joshua & Susan Schanen Mot’s Custom Clothing & Alterations Opus Community Foundation
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STEM AT THE CLUBS & IN THE FIELD
I
example—moving from coding exploration to learning how to design and create smart phone apps.
Moving into the new school year in September, the focus has been to continue to promote STEM awareness across the board while increasing STEM proficiencies in youth 6th grade and up. Beginning with increasing access to STEM resources, in order to guide members through developing STEM proficiencies, youth discover new methods of observing and interacting with the world around them. This has resulted in more hands-on projects that have real world applications; for
Beginning September of 2015, the Clubs began an initiative to increase STEM access through programming at each of its Clubs and investing in technology resources. This was accomplished through a generous partnership with the Tesoro Corporation. Programming for the second half of the 2015-16 school year involved incorporating new computers, digital cameras—and at two Clubs—a set of iPads for daily activities, which helped to boost member participation in educational activities. Among the STEM program activities were: coding exploration, popsicle stick bridges, gardening, and exploring the world of 3D design. This end of the school year program rewarded teen participants with a College Tour Road Trip. Through the summer, Club staff worked to develop the Tesoro STEM Academy
n 2016 the Clubs boosted Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics programming at all six locations, Sedro-Woolley, Mount Vernon, LaVenture & Mount Baker Middle Schools, La Conner, and Anacortes, as well as the Burlington Public Library. Through this initiative, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County have increased STEM awareness to more than 1,000 of the 1,700 youth who attended the Clubs this year.
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Launching the DIY STEM programming from Boys & Girls Clubs of America last January, has made a tremendous impact in promoting STEM proficiencies through all ages.
which emerged this school year and targets sixth, seventh, and eighth graders with the goal of engaging them in exploration and developing the future of STEM. Continuing a partnership with Tesoro to integrate STEM programming has increased STEM access at all six Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County locations, and Club staff continue to find new ways to engage the youth of Skagit County in making STEM commonplace in their day-to-day lives. Launching the DIY STEM programming from Boys & Girls Clubs of America last January, has made a tremendous impact in promoting STEM proficiencies through all ages. This program helps to support the goals of STEM programming by embracing the culture of Boys & Girls Club programming; offering on-the-spot STEM fun, getting messy with kitchen chemistry, and building monuments and gadgets out of recyclables. The current generation of youth is particularly interested in anything that they can do themselves and take ownership of—the DIY STEM activities promote just that. With some staff guidance, Club members are presented with a “problem” and then work together to plan how to solve it. After developing their plan, members work together to create their designs and implement their plan. Through this process members gain real world STEM experiences by collaborating with a group of their peers, embracing their creativity and innovation, and ultimately gaining recognition that reinforces positive attitudes towards the sciences.
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Each of us must come to care about everyone else's children. We must recognize that the welfare of our children and grandchildren is intimately linked to the welfare of all other people's children. After all, when one of our children needs life-saving surgery, someone else's child will perform it. When our children dial 911, someone else’s child will answer it. When our children need a helping hand, someone else’s child will be there to lend it. If one of our children is threatened or harmed by violence, someone else's child will be responsible for the violent act. The good life for our own children can be secured only if a good life is secured for all other people's children. Mike & Dianne Crawford hold these words to be true & dear to their hearts. That is why they are proud to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County
Reflections:
THE SEDRO-WOOLLEY CLUB Cookson Beecher Club Volunteer, Sedro-Woolley
W
hen I started volunteering at the Sedro-Woolley Boys and Girls Club, I thought of it as a way to help individual students. And while that’s definitely true, I’ve also learned that it goes beyond that.
Over at the teen center, teens are playing basketball, doing their homework, getting help with “life skills,” and just plain enjoying the chance to “hang out” in a safe and positive place.
Each time that I come to the Club, I’m happily amazed to see how much the kids love being outside and playing sports. Some of the girls are actually doing cartwheels on their way to the sports fields. I also see the flowers and vegetables the children have planted. For some of them, gardening is pure pleasure, not to mention the excitement that comes with seeing the first green shoot pushing up out of the soil. They also take pride in making flower bouquets and eating the vegetables they’ve planted.
As impressive as all of this is, even more impressive is how happy the kids are to be with each other and having the chance to burn off some energy, play, and learn. Each and every day, they’re doing and learning so much. They get to choose what they do, and along the way, they get to learn a lot of valuable lessons that help them make the right choices.
Once inside, I see a room full of kids doing crafts, taking delight in what they’re creating. In the main room, kids are playing all sorts of games with each other. And in the “homework room,” kids are quietly reading or getting help with their reading or math. In the next room, kids are on computers, learning skills such as coding. For them, improving their reading and math skills and learning more about computers is a way to boost their chances of succeeding in life. Instead of relying on luck, they’re relying on their own hard work and persistence. As the saying goes, “the harder you work, the luckier you get.”
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What I’ve learned is that this is more than a Club, more than a group of children, and more than the staff members and volunteers. It’s a community of young people who will take what they’ve learned at the Club into their future. And by doing that, they’ll be making sure the next generation has the chance to experience what they’ve experienced. They’ll be working toward ensuring that their community is a good place to live and for children to grow up in. As a volunteer, I see this as a circle that winds around the present and embraces the future—a circle that extends from individuals to the community as a whole —a circle that includes all of us. How fortunate can we be!
L to R: Club kid grandmother with Cookson at the Farmer’s Market Share. Playing board games. Dahlia’s grown & arranged with Cookson. Power Hour (homework help) with Cookson & a Club member.
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