FIVE REASONS WHY

With a mission to inspire and enable all youth to reach their potential, Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Houston stood behind Saniya as she reached hers.

Since 2010 The George Foundation has partnered with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Houston to increase the number of area youth benefitting from academic support, character development and health-centered programming. With clubs providing year-round offerings to Fort Bend youth through sites located in Stafford, Richmond and Houston, the organization reaches nearly 3,000 club members annually.

One such youth is Saniya, an eleven-year old member at the Stafford Club, who chose to participate in the Junior Staff Program geared towards empowering members with employment opportunities. Saniya was determined to serve as a role model for her younger brother and took on her leadership responsibilities with a deep display of commitment. However, when her grades dropped, her leadership position at the front desk was revoked. The following day, the club’s director found a letter on his desk from Saniya, outlining five reasons why she would be able to get her grades up. The letter ended with Saniya’s words stating, “If I truly work my hardest, I will come back up and stay up.” She has since maintained Straight-A’s and resumed her leadership role at the club.

“The Junior Staff program develops the confidence, work ethic and career skills of our Fort Bend Club members ages 13 to 18,” said Nick Cantu, Fort Bend County Director at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Houston. “These determined and responsible individuals contribute greatly to our clubs’ focus on academic success, healthy lifestyles, and good character and citizenship.”

The Stafford Boys and Girls Club was among local nonprofit providers that suffered significant damage from Hurricane Harvey. The club took in approximately 18 inches of water and as a result, was closed for a month for restoration and repairs. Two passenger vans used to transport club members were also lost during the storm. With a generous display of community support, the organization was able to waive membership fees for families as well as provide them with needed goods and supplies in the response efforts. 

To learn more about how to support the Boys and Girls Clubs of Houston’s recovery efforts please contact Susy Smith, Vice President of Development, at ssmith@bgcgh.org.