While several counties in Colorado are expected to see their child population fall, Weld County’s population of people under the age of 18 is expected to double between 2017 and 2050. Additionally, one in six kids across Colorado is alone or unsupervised every day after school. The Boys and Girls of America Organization have served the nation for over 100 years, since 1860. Boys & Girls Clubs of Weld County (BGCWC) has served youth ages six through 18 since 1964, providing hope and opportunity to families in our community. BGCWC helps students in the areas of education, health and wellness, sports and recreation, service and leadership, and arts. The club not only helps in these specific areas but also tailors to the needs of the community.
In Greeley, BGCWC reaches the community through events, programs, and connecting with the students. “We try to fill in the gaps in between school, life, and home life; doing our best to support the children in any way we can,” says Travis Hitt, VP of Marketing & Engagement. The club also donates to the community in the summer and beginning of the new school year. President and CEO of Baessler Homes, Jamie Baessler has a special connection to the club and its mission. He believes that the events and programs are more than just a fundraiser, but part of a bigger impact. Baessler attended the club when he was a youth and experienced the purpose, mission, and community. The impact he witnessed resonated with Baessler so much, he decided to become a supporter and continues to encourage youth in the community and give them a better future.
BGCWC hosts an annual breakfast called the Youth of the Year Hope Breakfast, which is a fun, informative gathering for supporters to hear about the experiences of some youth with incredible stories in our community. The breakfast serves as a fundraiser, but more importantly, a bigger picture of the impact the club has on the students' lives and community. In previous years, BGCWC has raised thousands of dollars for multiple scholarships to give to different students in the community. They also have the privilege of giving out scholarships to local colleges. The scholarships are carefully considered through a process of several recommendation letters, essays, a three-minute speech, and even a panel of judges to review the student and their intentions to study and better themselves. BGCWC is extremely thankful for all the support from the community and the continued encouragement received from families and students in the area.
The annual breakfast is a free event on December 8th from 7:30-9 am, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Greeley Lincoln Park, located at 919 7th St, in Greeley.
The event is open to the entire community, and BGCWC would love to see you there. Tickets are free, but registration is required. You can RSVP at boysgirlsclubsofweldcounty-bloom.kindful.com/e/hopebreakfast2022
