Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago

ABOUT BGCC:

Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago's mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.

Since 1902, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago have provided the city's children with a safe, positive and supportive place where they can take advantage of after-school programs, activities and services designed to prepare them for the future and achieve their fullest potential. Children ages 6-18 are welcome to join one of the many Clubs in Chicago, where they can play sports, receive tutoring, or simply find companionship. Our staff members not only work to keep order at the Clubs, but also mentor the kids, often serving as role models. In a city of over 3 million people, each community has its distinct strengths and problems; youths from diverse backgrounds gather in the common space of the Clubs. Located in the heart of Chicago’s Bridgeport neighborhood, the Louis L. Valentine Club offers a unique after-school experience for the more than 1,200 members it serves annually.

“We have kids come from all over the city,” says Club Director Dawn Jimenez about the Club’s diverse membership. “During the summer months, we have kids from the suburbs as well. Because [the Club] is centrally located and really easy to get to, we find people travel here to receive the services and attend the programs. At pick-up time, you can see everyone is from everywhere. It’s the real-world experience here at Valentine!”

 

2009 - 2012 | Teen r.e.a.c.h coordinator | city wide Teen programming liason | Assistant event and fundraising coordinator

 

 
Torch Club Walk A Thon

HIGhlights of Michael's Work: 

  • Teen REACH Coordinator: Managed grant deliverables, budget, youth programming and 8 staff

  • City of Chicago Club Liaison: Trained and supported fellow coordinators throughout Chicago

  • Volunteer Coordinator: Developed/managed volunteer program for yearly for 30+

  • Summer Camp: Ran day camp for 225+ 6-12 yr. olds; supervised 21 counselors

  • Events: Assisted planning, marketing, and execution of fundraisers securing over $500K 

 

BGCC Teen Starved Rock Trip