MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Meet Jolina
Member Since:
2022
Why Boys & Girls Club?
Jolina’s mother, a former Boys & Girls Club employee and an experienced Collier County Public Schools staff member earlier in her career, chose to enroll Jolina and her younger brother in the 21st CCLC program, confident it offered the best opportunity to foster their growth and success.* Now a nurse, and her father, a forklift supervisor, believe “education is the key to unlock a better future.”
Achieving & Succeeding:
Jolina has thrived in the 21st CCLC program by receiving academic support from certified teachers and staff, including daily assistance with her homework to ensure it is completed. In the last two years, Jolina has become more outgoing and social, and stronger academically. Her reading and writing have improved through her participation in the I-Readers program, a partnership with the Immokalee Foundation, as well as general education curriculum and games. As a result of the Club’s support and her dedication and hard work, Jolina is meeting quarterly milestones needed to advance to the next grade level.
*The Boys & Girls Club of Collier County proudly operates three 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) programs, serving nearly 1,000 members across eight sites. Funded by grants from the Florida Department of Education, these programs provide essential after-school academic enrichment opportunities for youth who might not otherwise have access. Parents of children at designated 21st CCLC schools can enroll their children in free after-school, spring, and summer programs specifically designed to enhance learning and personal development during non-school hours.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Academics
Through the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) Club, members created their own lightbulbs. This hands-on activity fostered creativity and provided a practical introduction to basic electrical circuits. Using colorful construction paper, members crafted lightbulb bodies, then incorporated LED lightbulbs, copper tape, and coin batteries to bring their creations to life. By carefully connecting the components, they learned how electricity flows and how circuits function, learning more about the principles of science and engineering. As they worked together, students re-enforced their problem-solving, teamwork and critical thinking skills.
Programs in this core area include: Project Learn, STEM, Homework Help, Power Hour, and Tutoring.
Character & Leadership Development
All middle and high school members at the Boys & Girls Club of Collier County participate in leadership development programs designed to build their skills and character. Members who demonstrate exceptional growth in leadership are invited to apply these skills by competing for the prestigious titles of Junior Youth of the Year and Youth of the Year. These programs not only celebrate their achievements but also provide a pathway to earn a college scholarship.
As part of the preparation process, members learn to secure recommendation letters, including how to professionally and respectfully request them from mentors and community leaders. They practice crafting and delivering compelling speeches to make a strong and confident impression—skills that serve them well not only in the competition but also in future opportunities such as college applications and job interviews. This year we have 30 Club members participating in Junior Youth of the Year and 10 members in Youth of the Year.
Programs in this core area include: Passport to Manhood, Junior Youth of the Year, Torch Club, and Keystone Club.
The Arts
Members at Nichols proudly showcased their artwork during the Lights On After School event, a celebration of creativity and talent. This special occasion allowed parents and family members to appreciate the incredible fall-themed artwork created by their children, highlighting the diverse skills and imaginative expressions of our young artists. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as parents strolled through the display, admiring the colorful pieces and engaging in conversations with the young creators.
Programs in this core area include: Amazing Artists, BGC Improv, Dance Ensemble, Music and Creation Stations.
Health & Life Skills
In partnership with The Shelter for Abused Women and Children, teens are continuing their participation in the Expect Respect program, diving into critical topics around stereotypes and relationship dynamics. In one session, they explored common stereotypes about males and females, discussing how these assumptions can influence perceptions and behaviors in relationships. Another session focused on identifying healthy and unhealthy relationship patterns by analyzing lyrics from popular songs and scenes from popular TV shows. This approach helped teens recognize both red flags and positive qualities in relationships they see in the media. These sessions help teens better understand respect, empathy, and the importance of healthy boundaries, equipping them with essential tools to form positive relationships in their lives.
Other programs in this core area include: Mr. & Mrs. Manners, L.E.A.D. (Law Enforcement Against Drugs), and SMART Moves
Sports, Fitness & Recreation
Members enthusiastically participate in the Boys & Girls Club Sports Academy, learning and improving skills in volleyball and basketball. These sports will extend through December and the much-anticipated league play is scheduled the week before Winter Break.
Fitness testing gave members the opportunity to take a pre-assessment test to measure their aerobic and locomotor skills. A post-assessment at the end of the school year will allow them to track improvements through our programs. Testing focuses on the Club’s upper elementary members along with middle school members.
Other programs in this core area include: Triple Play Daily Challenge, Badges for Baseball, and Sports Leagues.
College & Career Readiness
DEC Contracting Group and Advanced Roofing + Sheet Metal gave 24 teens an amazing experience to explore careers in construction at RMCA in Immokalee. Teens participated in a building tour, learned about careers in construction, and received hands-on experience in trades including roofing, electrical wiring, and project management. The Club extends its appreciation to these organizations for giving our students an overview of the diverse opportunities in the construction field. Together, we’re helping our students expand their career horizons.
Other programs in this core area include: Diplomas 2 Degrees, and Work-Based Learning.
EVENTS & DATES
Thursday, February 6, 2024
at The Ritz-Carlton Beach House
Join us for sunset, wine and philanthropy at the exquisite Ritz-Carlton Naples Beach House to support Boys & Girls Club of Collier County programming, facilities and scholarships. Sponsorships Available.
Wednesday, February 26, 2025
at The Ritz-Carlton Beach House
Our annual Youth of the Year Awards is now part of a larger event: The Great Futures Gala! Join us for this inaugural year as we we showcase Shaping Tomorrow Together for the youth of Collier County. Sponsorships Available.
If you are interested in more information or sponsorship opportunities, please contact:
Martha Perez
Events & Corporate Relations Manager
mperez@bgccc.com
239-325-1716
