As Collin County continues to grow at a remarkable pace, ensuring that every child has access to opportunity remains one of the community's greatest responsibilities. For Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County (BGCCC), that mission is at the heart of everything they do.
Founded on the belief that every young person deserves the chance to succeed, BGCCC provides a safe, supportive environment where children and teens can learn, grow, and discover their potential. Through after-school programs, summer activities, academic support, mentorship, healthy meals, and enrichment opportunities, the organization helps young people build confidence and develop the skills they need for the future.
"At Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County, our mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens," says Shawn Wills, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County. "More than anything, we strive to ensure every child feels seen, supported and empowered to pursue a bright future."
While Collin County is often viewed as a thriving and prosperous region, many local families face challenges that are not always visible. Rising living expenses, food insecurity, limited access to affordable childcare, and increasing mental health concerns can create significant barriers for children and their families.
Shawn explains that BGCCC works to address these challenges by providing affordable programs, nutritious meals and snacks, academic assistance, mentorship, and activities that support social and emotional well-being.
"We believe every child deserves access to opportunities that help them thrive, regardless of their circumstances," she says.
The young people served by BGCCC come from a wide variety of backgrounds, but they share one important characteristic: potential. Through daily interactions, caring mentors, and meaningful programs, the organization helps youth recognize their strengths and imagine possibilities for their future.
Whether a student is improving academically, developing leadership skills, exploring career interests, or preparing for college, BGCCC provides resources and encouragement along the way.
One of the organization's guiding beliefs is that exposure creates opportunity. Shawn says some of the most powerful moments occur when young people are introduced to experiences they may never have otherwise encountered.
Each summer, BGCCC offers college tours that take teens to universities, historically Black colleges and universities, community colleges, and trade schools. Participants can connect with students, advisors, and professionals while learning about educational and career pathways available to them.
"Through mentorship, field trips and workforce readiness programs, we witness transformative moments when young people begin to see new possibilities for their future," shares Shawn. "Those moments of discovery and confidence are at the heart of everything we do."
As one of the fastest-growing counties in the nation, Collin County faces both opportunities and challenges when it comes to supporting its youngest residents. Shawn believes organizations like BGCCC play a vital role in providing stability, mentorship, and support during critical years of development.
"We believe investing in young people today strengthens our entire community for generations to come," she says.
Community involvement remains essential to the organization's success. Volunteers, mentors, donors, businesses, and community leaders all contribute to creating opportunities for Club members. Whether through financial support, sponsorships, employee volunteer programs, or mentorship, every contribution helps make a lasting difference.
Looking ahead, BGCCC is focused on expanding both its reach and impact throughout Collin County. The organization continues to strengthen programs centered on academic success, leadership development, workforce readiness, and emotional well-being.
"What excites us most is the opportunity to serve even more young people and help shape the next generation of leaders, innovators and changemakers in our community," says Shawn. By 2030, the organization hopes to reach 30,000 youth across Collin County.
At its core, Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County remains committed to a simple but powerful belief. Every child deserves the opportunity to succeed. With continued community support, the organization is helping ensure that more young people have the tools, encouragement, and opportunities they need to build great futures right here at home.
BGCCC.org
Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County serves thousands of young people through programs designed to support academic success, character development, leadership growth, and healthy lifestyles. Club members have access to after-school and summer programs, homework assistance, nutritious meals and snacks, workforce readiness training, mentorship opportunities, and enrichment activities. A key focus is providing experiences that broaden horizons and create opportunities, including college tours, career exploration programs, and leadership development initiatives. Community members can support the mission through volunteering, mentoring, sponsorships, and donations. Every contribution helps create lasting impact and opens doors for local youth every day.