Growing up in a small town in Alamance County, North Carolina my family didn’t have much. But what we did have was discipline, a lot of love in the home, community support, and a church foundation that began at Morning Star Baptist. Our neighborhood was one where everybody pitched in and attempted to help each other remain focused on bettering our condition. We shared food, parents watched out for or disciplined other people’s kids, and there were mentors to show you the way. The “OGs” in the neighborhood tried to keep the kids from making the same mistakes some of them may have made along the way. They encourage us to stay out of trouble and in school to create better outcomes for ourselves.
As our city became increasingly dangerous, members within our community leadership stepped up to provide solutions, and numerous ways to keep the youth out of the streets and provide support for the families that lived within them. One of those avenues came when my older brother introduced me to the Salvation Army Boys Club (at the time). My mother and he had hopes that it would give me additional structure and a place where I could hone my love for sports. What I found within those walls, and through their programs, exceeded my expectations by giving me more than I could have ever hoped for. I found a second home, life-long friends, confidence through team play and the championships we won in sports, classroom reinforcement with study hall, and spiritual connectedness from an organization that reinforced the values my mother had establish by putting God first. I also learned many key lessons in my journey that culminated later with me becoming a leader, manager, and executive.
The Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club has long played a crucial role in providing support and opportunities for children and teenagers from all walks of life. It just so happens, I was one who represented a low-income community, and they were perfect for those like me. Their multifaceted approach helped to create a safe haven by addressing various needs and fostering positive development in several ways:
- Safe Haven and Community Hub: The Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club offers a secure environment where young people can find refuge from the challenges and dangers they might face in their neighborhoods. This safe space is crucial for children who might otherwise be exposed to negative influences or unsafe conditions.
- Values through Spiritual Awareness: The organization integrates spiritual awareness into its programming, which helps instill a sense of purpose, ethical behavior, and personal responsibility. By emphasizing values such as compassion, respect, and integrity, the club helps guide children in developing a strong moral compass.
- Sports and Physical Activities: Engaging in sports and physical activities is a significant part of the club’s offerings. These activities promote physical health, teach teamwork and discipline, and provide a constructive outlet for energy and stress. Sports also help build self-esteem and provide opportunities for leadership and personal growth. I am proud to say that my favorite memories included winning several championships, include the North Carolina youth State title.
- Summer Camps: Summer camps organized by the Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club offer enriching experiences outside the school year. These camps provide a range of activities from outdoor adventures to creative arts, all in a structured environment that encourages learning and personal development. Camps help bridge the gap between school years and offer children new experiences and skills. I attended camp in Denton, NC.
- Reinforcing Classroom Education: The club supports academic achievement through various programs and tutoring services. The keep in close contact with school educators to see how their members are doing. By providing homework help, after-school programs, and educational enrichment activities, the club helps reinforce classroom learning and address educational gaps. This support is particularly important for children who might lack resources or parental assistance at home.
A VERY PERSONAL NOTE FROM OUR FOUNDER AT PACKED HOUSE SPORTS, LLC
Overall, the Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club is, and has always been, very personal to me and my family. It has contributed to my well-being and development, and has provided the same to young people like myself in low-income communities and beyond by offering a comprehensive range of services and activities. Its focus on creating a safe, supportive, and enriching environment helps the youth build the skills, values, confidence, and resilience needed to succeed both academically and personally. And best of all, the parents get peace of mind knowing their children have dedicated leaders and employees who are determined to make sure they are being well cared for (mind, body, and soul). “Pay it forward” and “Each one teach one!” God bless!
