World traveler and advocate for the environment Bruce Segal visited Bridesburg and Germantown Boys & Girls Clubs. Mr. Segal talked to summer campers about the amazing rainforests of the world, both entertaining and educating kids during his hour-long presentations. Sharing exciting video and pictures of interesting animals, Mr. Segal talked about the environmental importance of the rainforests and some of the problems that animals face there today. Kids received numerous opportunities to show and develop their knowledge on the subject. Thank you to Bruce Segal for his enthusiasm and generosity. For more information about Mr. Segal’s presentations, visit brucesegalassemblies.com.

Our own Germantown Boys & Girls Club recently received national accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, the nation's largest organization of early childhood educators. Joining our Bridesburg child care program, Germantown earned recognition for meeting rigorous quality standards in all aspects of its operation from health, safety and equipment to appropriate curriculum and motivated staff.

"Parents searching for child care now know that we've gone above and beyond the basic standards to provide quality programs for young children and to provide continued recognition and professional development for our staff," says Georgianna Ragland, director of preschool child care at Germantown Boys & Girls Club. "We studied our programs and overall operation in light of the national standards, and worked hard to ensure we were up to their requirements. I'm proud of our whole staff for making this commitment to quality for this community's children and families. We could not have reached this standard of quality without the financial support of the United Way of Southeastern Pennsylvania." High quality early childhood care and education is one of United Way’s highest priorities towards making a significant impact in the community. Through its Preschool Quality Improvement Initiative, United Way provides funding for programs to achieve NAEYC accreditation and advancing in the Keystone Stars program.

Child care has become an essential component of the American lifestyle as more than 60 percent of Pennsylvania's children will attend a child care program before entering kindergarten. Studies confirm that children—especially those at-risk—who experience high-quality child care, are not only better prepared for school, but also are less likely to fall into juvenile delinquency. Quality programs like the Germantown Boys & Girls Club that gain national accreditation play a pivotal role in preparing children for the future, Ragland says.

Mentors and leaders provided by the Delaware Valley Association for the Education of Young Children (DVAEYC) worked closely with the facility to help it meet the quality requirements. DVAEYC offers professional development and training to the early education community in the Southeastern Region of Pennsylvania. To gain accreditation, the facility voluntarily developed and implemented quality-improvement plans that surpass minimum licensing standards. Staff focused on providing developmentally-appropriate learning opportunities for children within stimulating environments, cultivating staff interactions with children and their families, and designing effective curriculum and program administration.

"The accreditation process has helped us to view each child's day here as not just another day where Mom and Dad go to work, but one that leads to the growth and development of a healthy, smart, productive member of society," says Ragland. "We are concentrating our efforts on remembering that quality early child care and education requires us to address a child's physical, social, emotional and educational needs. We're not just minding tots for a few hours."

Congratulations to the Germantown Boys & Girls Club and its outstanding staff!

Forty Deloitte employees completed many facility improvement projects at Germantown Boys & Girls Club on Friday, June 16, 2006. As part of "Impact Day," Deloitte’s national day of service, volunteers weeded, seeded, trimmed and cut the garden and side lot; painted the Learning Center; water-sealed and painted the art room; and laid a vinyl rug in the future science lab. Thank you to each volunteer who truly made a tremendous impact at our Germantown Club and to Deloitte for its continued dedication to BGCP. Deloitte Managing Partner John Rooney was elected Chairman of the BGCP Board of Directors in June 2006.

On June 10, 2006, kids from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia participated in the Donovan McNabb "All-Star Kids Clinic," hosted by the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback and his father, Samuel McNabb. Eagles players worked with kids from all over the city on both offensive and defensive football fundamentals through a series of drills targeting blocking, ball carrying, agility and a number of other skills. As the event progressed, onlookers had a difficult time distinguishing who was having more fun – the kids or the players! All the BGCP kids in attendance, whether aspiring athletes or fun-seekers, girls or boys, had a great time. Parents and chaperones enjoyed watching the players interact with the kids and when it was time to go home, no one wanted to leave the Eagles’ Nest. Thank you to Donovan McNabb, his parents and the Eagles organization for their time and dedication.

"Ad Agencies Are Typical. We Are Not." A marketing force to be reckoned with, Eleanor Kubacki and her outstanding team at EFK Group throw an event unlike any other, and BGCP has benefited immensely from their professional and creative expertise. Hosting our annual "Touching a Life" gala over the last few years, EFK continually raises the standard of elegance, executing top-notch events that generate funding for the Clubs. EFK’s premier event, however, remains the Exelon Invitational, a four-day golf tournament hosted by Jim Furyk. For the fifth consecutive year, EFK has named Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia the beneficiary of the Sunday-evening "Gala on the Green," a fabulous cocktail party that draws a number of donors and sponsors for our organization. Sincere thanks to Eleanor and her staff from BGCP!

The Exelon Invitational Golf Tournament, hosted by Jim Furyk, was a great weekend of recreational and professional golf, plus a golf clinic performed by the PGA tour stars, an expo area with national and local companies, the Legg Mason Funds $1,000,000 Hole-In-One Shootout and the $10,000 putting contest open to the public. John Daly claimed six skins worth $130,000 to win the three-man Exelon Invitational on Monday, June 5, 2006. For more on this story, visit pgatour.com/story/9481054.

The Invitational boasts more than just great golf; the event helped to raise over $200,000 for Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia at the lavish Gala on the Green, held on Sunday evening, June 4^th. This year’s gala had a Mexican flair with celebrity chef Miguel Padilla of San Miguel. Guests enjoyed a silent auction and an exciting live auction with CBS3 sports anchor Beasley Reese serving as auctioneer. Unique items included caddy rights for each professional golfer playing in the skins match on June 5^th, autographed 2005 Major pin flags, and a golf trip to Scotland. And to make the night most memorable, during the auction, Jim Furyk took the stage with his wife, Tabitha, and they presented an incredibly generous gift of $60,000 donation to BGCP!

BGCP thanks the Furyks as well as competitors Adam Scott, John Daly (active with Boys & Girls Clubs in his home state of Arkansas), and local treasure Sean O’Hair. Our sincerest appreciation goes to the ACE Club (www.theaceclubonline.com) for a flawless first-time event, Eleanor Kubacki and her outstanding staff at EFK Group (www.efkgroup.com), Jack Kellmer Co. (www.jkellmer.com) for donating a Rolex for a raffle that raised over $9,000, and all our wonderful, generous sponsors, golfers, gala guests and volunteers who helped to make this event the most successful ever for Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia.

The Nicetown Boys & Girls Club’s held its first Recognition Dinner on Wednesday, May 24, 2006, honoring Club staff, members, and parents. Kuma Simon served as master of ceremony, and Joseph Padgett-Mebane, junior staff member and Nicetown’s 2005 and 2006 Young Man of the Year welcomed parents and members to the ceremony. Throughout the evening, many other important Nicetown programs and clubs as well as their participants were recognized.

Program advisors Jessica Johnson and Rhonda Dawkins opened the evening honoring the participants of the Health & Life Skills and Glamour Girlz programs, which provide guidance to young women in areas such as good citizenship, enthusiasm, and perfect attendance. Parents of these outstanding young ladies were also recognized for their continuing commitment and support toward their daughters’ personal growth and character development. Shannell Campbell, a Glamour Girlz graduate, addressed the audience saying, "To me, the girls in the program are like my next family and it has changed me into a nice, mature young lady."

Mr. Simon identified all the members of the Art Club, while Hannah Leathe recognized the participants of her Torch Club. Torch member Nia Miles spoke about what that club has meant to her, touching on the positive life changes she experienced resulting from her participation in the Character and Leadership program. Shatara Fitzgerald, the Keystone Club advisor, recognized Keystone Club members followed by teen member Tia Blassingale, who highlighted Keystone goals and activities.

The evening’s agenda also included recognition of 12 graduating seniors from various high schools throughout Philadelphia, many who have plans for higher education. Unit Council President Jackie Thompson congratulated members and encouraged parents to become involved, declaring the Nicetown Boys & Girls Club "a safe place for our kids to be."

Chanell Reaves, a teen Club member, surprised staff member and Club parent Yolunda Perry with a service award recognizing her continued involvement and contribution to the Nicetown Boys & Girls Club. Ms. Yolunda graciously accepted the award, encouraging other parents to remain involved in the Club activities.

The Nicetown Stars gave a wonderful dance performance, followed by the announcement of this month’s "Youth’s of the Month," two Club members who demonstrate good citizenship throughout the month. Unit Director Clarence Miller said a few words about Courtney Moragne, BGCP’s 2006 Youth of the Year; Corey Stewart, Philadelphia’s 2005 Youth of the Year for 2005; and Joseph Padgett-Mebane, Nicetown’s 2005 and 2006 Young Man of the Year.

Director of Operations Jack Law recognized Tiffany Mitchell and André Gibson with the Good Citizenship Award and closed the evening’s festivities with congratulations to all honorees and an encouraging word to parents.

Saturday, May 20, 2006, Torch Club members of Germantown and Nicetown Boys & Girls Clubs enjoyed a super day at Circuit City on Roosevelt Boulevard in Northeast Philadelphia. In support of Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia, Circuit City provided an afternoon of barbeque and basketball as well as all the latest electronic games for kids to play inside the store. The local fire department also visited the Club kids, giving them a chance to see a fire engine close up. Funds and gifts were also collected on behalf of BGCP, and kids received a number of gifts to take home with them. Sincere thanks to Chris Franklin and the store staff for making this event a success and thank you to Circuit City for continued support of BGCP.

On Saturday, April 22, 2006, teens from BGCP’s “The Club,” gathered at Mariana Bracetti Charter Academy BGC to participate in the annual local Keystone Conference. Entitled “Knowledge: the Key to Success,” the conference agenda focused on facilitating the development of ethical leadership skills; facilitating an understanding of the importance of tolerance, self-improvement, and free enterprise; fostering a drug-free community; and continuing with post-high school education.

The day opened with an important message from the Philadelphia Police Community Services Department, who provided teens with a realistic look at the effects of drug use and addiction. Teens then moved onto three distinct workshops with varied themes on college awareness and entrepreneurship. There, club teens participated in project-centered discussions. Even the quietest members spoke up to share ideas and help brainstorm new ones! Lunchtime provided teens their favorite foods and a great time to chat, laugh and compare notes with members of other Clubs.

As a final project, after lunch the groups presented the results of their efforts. The task entailed developing different marketing strategies and creative solutions to recruiting new members to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia. Teens showcased posters, slogans, and skits, ending the conference on a high note.

Many thanks go to Unit Director John Gonzalez for organizing the conference, and to the BGCP staff, who worked with the kids throughout the day. Our sincerest appreciation to Donna Griffin and Philadelphia Weed & Seed, who sponsored the event, as well as to national Boys & Girls Clubs sponsor Taco Bell, who provided food for lunch.

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At the Union League of Philadelphia, Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia announced Courtney Moragne as thier Youth of the Year at the annual Youth of the Year dinner. Moragne is a member of the Nicetown Boys & Girls Club. A senior at Central High School, Courtney's academic achievements reflect hard work and dedication, and she also serves as captain and treasurer of her school's pep squad. And as president of the Nicetown Teen Supreme Keystone Club, Courtney contributes much of her time organizing and participating in neighborhood clean-ups and community unity activities. She will attend Clark Atlanta University in pursuit of a career in pediatric medicine. She writes, "I want to continue my education for those who cannot, for those who think they cannot, for children who are scared, for my mother, but most importantly for myself." When accepting the award, Courtney thanked God, her family, the Clubs, and, above all, herself for finding the strength and courage to achieve such a high honor.

Moragne reveived a $1,000 scholarship for college and will be BGCP's representative at the State Youth of the Year competition in Harrisburg May 22 and 23, 2006. She has a chance of winning more college scholarship funds as she advances to the next level of competition. Youth of the Year is a Boys & Girls Clubs of America program designed to recognize outstanding teens at each Club, and to give them a chance to win scholarships for post-high school education. Teens from each Club undergo a rigorous process that includes written recommendations from peers and teachers, essays, and an interview with a diverse panel of judges.

The runner-up of BGCP's Youth of the Year competition is Joseph Padgett-Mebane, also from the Nicetown Boys & Girls Club. Padgett-Mebane, a senior at Simor Gratz High School, plans to attend Kutztown College as a business major.

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On March 18, 2006, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia returned to the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia, for the 24th annual "Touching a Life" Gala and Silent Auction. Honoring business leader, entrepreneur and motivational speaker Reneé Amoore, BGCP presented her with the "Touching a Life" award.

Guests enjoyed the delicious Ritz-Carlton menu and outstanding entertainment from "In the Pocket." Kids from six of the Clubs came to perform for the crowd. The acts included a soloist from Germantown, a tap team from Wissahickon, and the champion drum line and drill team from Northeast Frankford. Gala attendees bid on dozens of exciting items during the cocktail reception, raising over $9,300 in auction proceeds. The event was a huge success, raising a net gift of $100,000 for the Clubs.

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Center City's top hotel, the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia, has been a proud sponsor of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia "Touching a Life" gala for the past three years, provoding an elegant, historic setting for our black-tie affair in addition to wonderful menus and outstanding service. BGCP extends it's sincerest gratitude to the Ritz-Carlton, and we look forward to a long and mutually prosperous relationship. Please visit the Ritz-Carlton at www.ritzcarlton.com/hotels/philadelphia

Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia know firsthand that CRW Graphics handles "just about anything you'll need in print." CRW has been donating it's time and service to our organization with consistently superior quality and professionalism for many years. Many thanks to Board member Mark Weiss and his expert staff! You may visit CRW Graphics at www.crwgraphics.com

On Saturday, February 25, 2006, members of the Germantown Torch Club hosted the Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia Torch Club Conference 2006. This year the theme was “Super Heroes in the City!” Torch Clubs throughout Philadelphia gathered this year in remembrance of those who lost their lives due to violent acts in our neighborhoods.

On Saturday, February 18, 2006, nine young ladies from our Wissahickon Club attended "Tap it Out," a performance by Soundworks, a University of Pennsylvania dance company, at the Prince Theater in Center City.

Accompanied by their tap dance instructor, Althena Radford, the girls enjoyed the performance and appreciated the opportunity to see a great show. A special thank you to Soundworks as well as Penn’s Office of Student Performing Arts, who donated the tickets.

On February 16, 2006, Germantown Boys & Girls Club kids gathered as staff members, Kenny Trower and Abdul Drayton, hung a very special Eagles jersey in the newly renovated games room.

The jersey, which reads “Boys & Girls Clubs” on the back, was a gift from the Philadelphia Eagles organization at the ribbon-cutting to open the Eagles-themed renovation of the recreation room, funded generously by Rent-A-Center. A heartfelt thank-you from Unit Director Daniel Gordy, and the Boys & Girls Club of Philadelphia, to Bob Lynch at Spike’s Trophies (www.gospike.com), who framed and delivered the jersey free of charge!

Boys & Girls Club of Philadelphia is proud to annouce new Unit Council members at the Bridesburg Boys & Girls Club: local entrepreneur and Bridesburg native, Keith Charlton; Nicole Slabinski, daughter of longtime member Joe Slabinski; and KYW’s Bob Kelly.

Two Unit Council members from Nicetown and Frankford, respectively, have been elected to the BGCP Board of Directors: Jackie Thomas, who works at Aramark, and Jackie Williams of Pennsylvania Hospital’s Women’s and Children’s Health.

On January 6, 2005, Keystone and Torch Club members celebrated Three Kings Day. The annual holiday, observed in Puerto Rico, the greater Caribbean, Latin America, and throughout the United States, commemorates the visitation of the Christ child.

Keystone and Torch club members, wonderfully dressed as “Three Kings,” visited the children at both the Feltonville Club and St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children to tell the 2000 year-old-story of three monarchs who visited the baby Jesus. And like their ancient predecessors, the teens arrived bearing gifts for each child. It was a truly festive day! Thank you to all who participated.

Textile students from Philadelphia University recently warmed the heads and hearts of a classroom full of Bridesburg preschoolers! As part of a semester-end project, students made hats and scarves for each child and on Thursday, December 15th presented the children with the winter apparel. According to day care director Adria Peta, the kids loved their new duds so much they wore them all day! Project coordinator Jennifer Kowalcyk said, "We had such a great time with them and I'm really glad that we did this. Thanks for everything."

BGCP gives many thanks in return to each student who participated and to Philadelphia University for making the holidays just a little more special for our tiniest members!

We would like to thank Ms. Lisa Dunlop and the ladies of The Junior League of Philadelphia for hosting a great Christmas-time get-together for the teenagers at the Germantown Boys & Girls Club. The young women of the Junior League arrived with pizza, soda, and delicious Christmas cookies to satisfy the teenage appetites as well as games and crafts for a fun-filled evening!

The festivities began in the auditorium with music, food and fellowship. Moving to our newly renovated game room, the kids chose from a variety of activities including video games, pool and air hockey. We capped off the evening with a pick-up basketball tournament in which winners received McDonald’s coupons. In our opinion, the evening’s success made everyone a winner!

Philadelphia University students stand behind their work! Chotip Chutiwongtya, Amber Serio, and Ericka Morgan, textile project facilitator, pose with Athletic Director Glen Mays behind Club members in their new basketball uniforms.

Kids of the Germantown Boys & Girls Club proudly received colorfully designed basketball t-shirts, personalized gifts from design students from the Philadelphia University. Germantown received word of the gifts in mid-September from Ericka Morgan, a sophomore with the university; as part of their "Survey of Apparel Industry" class, she and two of her fellow students, Chotip Chutiwongtya and Amber Serio, were to create apparel for young children. Ericka, Chotip and Amber, in an effort to personalize the project, decided to design special items for a child-centered non-profit organization.

The students, in collaboration with Glen Mays of the Germantown Club, determined that the kids were in need of new basketball jerseys, so the young women immediately went to task designing and making the jerseys. On Friday December 2, 2006 Ericka, Chotip and Amber presented the school-age children with a dozen, hand-made basketball jerseys. As evidenced by all the smiling faces, the project was a huge success. Thank you to the project participants and to Philadelphia University for its continuing support of our organization.

Ninety Nine Restaurant, a New England-based neighborhood casual dining chain with over 100 locations, celebrated the grand opening of its first restaurant in the Delaware Valley by making a $5,000 gift to Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia.

To show appreciation for the Ninety Nine’s generous support, BGCP encourages its friends to welcome the Ninety Nine to Philadelphia by visiting the new restaurant, which is across from Neshaminy Mall on Horizon Boulevard. For more information about Ninety Nine Restaurant visit their web site: www.99restaurants.com.

The Germantown Boys & Girls Club, part of Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia (BGCP), has been guiding young people since 1887. At 12 city sites, Club members learn character and leadership, and are encouraged to reach education and career goals, learn health and life skills, and participate in the arts, sports and recreation.

Joining Club members are (bottom row) BGCP Chief Professional Officer Jeffrey Waldron, Germantown Unit Council President Gwendolyn Carter, and (top row) Pepper Hamilton lawyer Kassem L. Lucas, a member of the BGCP board of directors, Pepper executive committee chairman Barry M. Abelson and executive partner Robert E. Heideck.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia announces a partnership with Target in support of its Keystone and Torch programs. Target gives back more than $2-million a week to its local communities through grants and special programs. Since opening its first store in 1962, Target has partnered with nonprofit organizations, guests and team members to help meet community needs.

Additionally, Target team members and retirees donate more than 300,000 hours to more than 7,500 projects each year. District Team Leader Mark Kerin is a member of the Board of Directors of BGCP.

The JCPenney Afterschool Fund awarded Boys & Girls Club of Philadelphia a $5,000 grant to support Power Hour, an innovative afterschool tutoring program designed to teach vital homework skills to local youth. Power Hour, which is offered at all of our Club and Extension sites, is an interactive homework assistance program offered during afterschool hours for children ages 6 to 18.

In the continuing effort to ensure every child has access to an afterschool program, the JCPenney Afterschool Fund is giving $875,000 nationally in support of Power Hour. This is part of a $2.2 million total contribution to Boys & Girls Clubs of America this year.

On November 22, 2005, Germantown Boys & Girls Club hosted our annual “Day of Thanks” dinner celebration. An evening devoted to recognizing 2005’s accomplishments and thanksgiving for the Club’s good fortune, we also had the opportunity to thank our members and their families.

Lovingly prepared by Ms. Felicia and Mr. White, the dinner was enjoyed by all. A special thank you to Ms. Shanelle’s mother (Mrs. Michelle Coleman) for her meal contributions and the school age and teen program for their “Kitchen Tech” contributions.

On October 29th, Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia was the beneficiary of Picnic in the Park, a lunch and auction tent party hosted by The Thomas Eakins Head of the Schuylkill Regatta. Our very own CDO, Lisa Dunlop, and Board member Rick Wegryn, both members of Regatta host University Barge Club, competed in the Regatta, making waves with a great finish in the mixed double race!

Boys & Girls Clubs recognizes its event sponsors Peco Energy, Alternative Work Environments, and Kristin and Bob Davidson. Sincere thanks to Rick Wegryn for helping to make BGCP the beneficiary of this traditional Philadelphia event.

The Lil' Clubhouse at the Bridesburg Boys & Girls Club has earned accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children – the nation's leading organization of early childhood professionals.

"We're proud to be accredited by NAEYC and recognized for our commitment to reaching the highest professional standards," said Adria Peta, director of the preschool program. "NAEYC Accreditation lets families in our community know that children in our program are getting the best care and early learning experience," adds Jerry Houck, director of the Bridesburg Boys & Girls Club, "We are very proud of the hard work of our Lil' Clubhouse staff and commend Miss Peta and her staff on this achievement."

On October 22nd, 2005, BGCP's Young Friends Committee repainted the walls of our Bridesburg preschool child care wing, the 'Lil Clubhouse. Young professionals from around the city arrived at the Bridesburg Club early Saturday morning armed with paint cans and brushes, and by the afternoon, the walls of the clubhouse were freshly painted and much more colorful!!

Thank you to all those who helped in this project as part of BGCP's goal to make the Bridesburg daycare center a "staple-free" zone, which is safer for young children.

Wharton School of Business (U. of Penn) students participated with members from a number of our clubs in a variety of activities. On October 5th, some of our Germantown Keystoners visited the BGCP administrative office and participated in a focus group regarding student-centerd suggestions from BGCP programming.

On October 11th, Wharton students ran a basketball clinic for Club kids at our Nicetown Club. Modell's Sporting Goods sponsored the event, giving out 50 mini-basketballs as gifts to kids!

Finally, on October 13th, Wharton students hosted Opportunities through Education "College Day" at the University of Pennsylvania. Boys & Girls Clubs teens participated in a scavenger hunt and tour of the campus, then attended informational workshops on admissions and financial aid. Most importantly, our teens heard first-hand from current Penn students who are the first in their families to attend college.

R&B superstar Mary J. Blige met personally with a group of smiling young women from the Germantown and West Kensington Boys & Girls Clubs on Friday, October 7, 2005.

The Pennsylvania Convention Center press event kicked off the sixth year of the Crest Healthy Smiles Campaign, a partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, that brings Club children low- or no-cost dental care, access to dental professionals, oral health education and toothbrushes and toothpaste. Crest aims to pass along a smile to millions of children this holiday season, as Mary J. partners with Crest Healthy Smiles to raise awareness about the country’s oral health epidemic.

With each purchase of Crest products this November and December, Crest will make a donation of a toothbrush and toothpaste to a deserving Boys & Girls Clubs member. As a thank-you for their purchase, consumers can log onto www.cresthealthysmiles.com and enter a Crest product UPC code to download a remake of James Taylor’s hit song “Your Smiling Face,” which Blige just recorded exclusively for Crest Healthy Smiles and Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

Brothers of Delta Upsilon at University of Pennsylvania hosted teens from Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia at their fraternity house. BGCP members enjoyed pizza, football, and getting to know the brothers. Boys & Girls Clubs is DU's national philanthropic affiliation.

The Philadelphia Eagles announced today that they will partner with Rent-A-Center to refurbish the recreation room at the Germantown Boys & Girls Club to kick off their "Eagles RAC Room" program - one of three in the Philadelphia area. Darwin Walker, Bill Manning, Ted DeMarino, and Lisa Dunlop will unveil the newly remodeled "RAC Room" during a 4:00 p.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, September 20th, at the Boys & Girls Club, 25 West Penn Street.

"We are proud to be partnering with Rent-A-Center on such a unique community program. It is so satisfying when a partner leverages their relationship with the Team not only to reach new customers but to positively impact the community,” said Bill Manning. “We look forward to unveiling all three of these rooms in the Philadelphia area in an effort to provide a more comfortable atmosphere for these young Eagles fans to celebrate their favorite team."

The Merck/Odyssey Bike Giveaway program at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on Friday, September 9th, was a huge success for all! Thank you to Merck and its 150 staff members who had assembled 60 bicycles as part of a team-building retreat. The Merck staffers didn't know until the retreat was nearly over that the bicycles were to be given to our kids. Imagine the applause and excitement from the Merck staff when the kids walked into the room!

Each Club child present received a brand-new Odyssey bicycle and they were thrilled to express their appreciation to the Merck employees. This is the third time since last September 2004 that Odyssey has selected our agency to be the beneficiary of their Bikes for Tikes program, and we extend to them our warmest and sincerest thanks on behalf of the 60 children who have received bicycles to date.

Over the summer, kids from our Clubs attended Regal Entertainment Group theatres for their Free Family Film Festival.

The festival spanned nine weeks and provided free movies for kids and their parents! It was a safe and fun way for kids to spend a weekday morning in the summer. Regal Entertainment Group is the largest motion picture exhibitor in the world. The Company's theatre circuit, comprising Regal Cinemas, United Artists Theatres and Edwards Theatres operates 6,273 screens in 558 locations in 40 states.

Congratulations to the Germantown Boys & Girls Club Childcare Center! ONe Monday April 18th, 2005 our childcare center were the happy recipients of an outdoor playhouse donated to them by a company named Odyssey Performance Enhancement network.

Shannon Tane leadership developer and coordinator was inspired to donate this dollhouse to the Germantown Boys and Girls Childcare Center for their continuted achievements of success along the path of excellence here at our center.

On August 17, 2005 the Germantown Boys & Girls Club threw a "Summer Extravaganza." This was to celebrate the work and accomplishments of summer camp 2005. The event was planned and put into place by Germantown's staff with the help of teenage youth workers from the Germantown Settlement organization. Our field was transformed into a recreational vicinity for all to enjoy. Members and guests participated in various activities such as face painting, sand art, jewelry making, dance contests, football and water play which included a 19ft water slide! An assortment of barbequed food, beverages and snacks were served to our members, quests and staff.

Later in the afternoon, the festivities moved into the auditorium where Germantown hosted a "Summer Dance Recital." Ms. Antoinette Henry (Dance Instructor) had our members put on a sensational performance as the audience watched and cheered on our youth. As the last dance performance done by our teens came to an end, parents, staff and guests felt delighted and privileged to be present at such an extraordinary celebration.

A great big THANK YOU to all participants who came to Henry Reed Hatfield field across from Nicetown Boys & Girls Club on August 7th to enjoy fun activities at National KidsDay. Sunday's event brought hundreds of kids who played basketball and double Dutch, football, soccer and good old games like hula-hoops and beanbag tic-tac-toe; took hip-hop dance lessons and participated in dance contests, painted faces and t-shirts, made sand art, bead jewelry and foam sculpture, bounced in the giant inflatable castle and cooled off under a water spray, and ate soft pretzels, hot dogs with everything, and cotton candy chased with icy lemonade, just perfect on a hot day.

August 1, 2005—Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia recently welcomed four new members to their Board of Directors. They are: Michael J. Colivita, Director of Planning & Financial Analysis at Sunoco; Brian D. Crowe, Director of Regulatory & Government Affairs of PECO Energy; Craig M. Lewis, Senior Vice President of Employee Benefits Services at Marsh, Inc.; and Kassem Lucas, an Associate of Pepper Hamilton, LLP.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia has been serving children since 1887 and is a member agency of Boys & Girls Clubs of America as well as a Community Impact Affiliate of the United Way of Southeastern Pennsylvania. Serving nearly 13,000 last year, Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia seeks to inspire and empower young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize and reach their fullest potential. There are currently Clubs in seven locations in Philadelphia: Bridesburg, Frankford, Germantown, Kensington, Nicetown, West Kensington, and Wissahickon. The Clubs deliver proven-effective programming after school and during the summer.

Philadelphia, PA (July 7, 2005)—Today 42 interns from Philadelphia’s top audit and risk recovery firm KPMG volunteered with the Germantown Boys & Girls Club summer camp. The afternoon was spent playing low impact sports with our 268 campers. The interns jumped right in and played touch football, volleyball, and kickball, with our campers. Some even gave several of our youngster piggyback rides.

This was a fun-filled afternoon, which later resulted in a football game between the Germantown staff and KPMG interns. It was a blast! Everyone had a great time watching and/or participating in the game. We appreciate the much needed services that KPMG extends to us in their outreaching efforts with community-based organizations such as the Boys & Girls clubs. It gives our children the exposure needed to enhance their social skills with people from all walks of life.

Philadelphia, PA (June 15, 2005)—On Wednesday, June 15, 2005, Wissahickon Boys & Girls Club will be recognized as a Historic Landmark of Philadelphia. The unveiling of the Historic Landmark Plaque on Wednesday will recognize Wissahickon Boys & Girls Club as the first Club in the nation founded to serve African-Americans.

Wissahickon Boys & Girls Club was founded immediately after the Civil War as the Pulaskitown Free Kindergarten to serve children of newly freed slaves and freemen who worked as domestics in the homes of wealthy merchants in Germantown. In 1906, the organization was one of 53 charter members of the Boys Club Federation, which is now Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

Today the Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia hosted the annual Achievement Matters ceremony at the Germantown Boys & Girls club. Two clubs (NE Frankford and Germantown) honored 56 children for their continued effort in their academic performance the previous school year. The ceremony was complete with opening remarks by our CPO Jeff Waldron, singing, poetry, and award presentations to both children and staff. Families who attended the ceremony were served dinner, and shown a power point presentation on the history of the Philadelphia Clubs.

More than 20 volunteers came out to the Germantown Boys & Girls club on Friday June 3, 2005. Well equipped with donated materials, and a continental breakfast for everyone present they gave our gymnasium and auditorium a new face with a thorough cleaning and polyurethane job. While a group worked on our floors several others painted two bathrooms, and the second floor hallway. They were so enthused they decided to take the extra step and paint the gymnasium as well.

On Saturday, May 28, 2005, David Cruz threw out the first pitch to start the first game of Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia’s RBI Baseball League at BGCP’s Feltonville site. Players aged 11 through 14 formed a sea of red and blue uniforms as they watched Cruz, a photojournalist for Al Dia, open their season.

RBI (“Reviving Baseball in the Inner Cities”) Baseball League is a Boys & Girls Clubs of America program funded by a grant from Major League Baseball. A month of practices and games will lead up to the July 9 All-Star game.

Play-offs begin July 11 with the Championship on July 30. For more information about the League, please contact the West Kensington Boys & Girls Club at (215) 228-1290.

Philadelphia, PA, April 14, 2005- Corey Stewart was announced as Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia’s Youth of the Year at the annual Youth of the Year dinner tonight. Stewart is a member of the Nicetown Boys & Girls Club. A junior at Girls’ High, Stewart is the school mascot and runs track year-round as a member of the varsity cross-country, indoor track and track teams. Cited by many as a natural leader, Stewart has distinguished herself by balancing a demanding set of family responsibilities with robust academic challenges.

Each spring, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia chooses an outstanding young man and young woman from each Club to participate in the Youth of the Year program. These teen members go through a rigorous evaluation process that encompasses ten areas, including recommendations, school transcripts, and essays. They are then interviewed by a panel of judges, who select a winner and runner-up. The winner moves onto the state competition in May.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia's 23rd Annual "Touching A Life" Gala was a huge success. This year, the Gala and Silent Auction was held on March 19, 2005 at the Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia. Children from local Boys & Girls Clubs performed in a talent showcase at the event. Proceeds from this event go towards supporting the Clubs' youth development programs, which serve over 12,000 youth all over the city.

This year's honoree was Thomas P. MacManus, the president and CEO of North American Operations for the GMAC Commercial Mortgage, and a former Board member of BGCP. He received the 2005 "Touching A Life" award to honor his dedication to aiding and improving the organization.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia held its annual Local Torch Club Conference on Saturday, February 26, 2005 at the Bridesburg Boys & Girls Club. Torch Club is a leadership program for members between the ages of 11 and 13 that encourages participation in community service, both in their community and their Clubs. Although Torch Club is a national Boys & Girls Clubs of America program, only BGCP holds a local Torch Club Conference for their members each year.

The Keystone Club, a teen leadership program at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia that promotes community service, held its local regional conference on Saturday, February 20, 2005, at the Wissahickon Boys & Girls Club on West Coulter Street. Deloitte and Target were recognized at the conference for supporting teen programs at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia.

On Wednesday February 16, 2005 two analysts from KURC visited the Germantown Boys & Girls Club to rate the quality of the program. After a thorough, day- long evaluation, they both agreed that the program at Germantown provided a service that was undoubtedly deserving of their 3rd star. With only 1/100 of a point away from a star 4. Below we have listed our scores out of a highest score of 7.

Laura Bush listens as boys participating in the Passport to Manhood program share ideas about respect and love during a visit to the Germantown Boys and Girls Club on Thursday, Feb. 3, 2005. Passport to Manhood promotes and teaches responsibility through a series of male club members ages 11-14.

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Every day after school, the kids in Germantown’s Power Hour program study, read, and work diligently on homework assignments. But all this hard work pays off in more ways than one: Power Hour participants get homework help for school, and they are all treated to a Power Hour party every other Friday afternoon as a reward for their commitment. On Friday, January 7, the Germantown Power Hour team threw their first party of the New Year. The theme was “Pajama Party,” and everyone came decked out in his or her cutest Barbie pjs and Ninja Turtle slippers...

On January 5th, 2005 teens from Bridesburg and Frankford gathered together in the Bridesburg computer lab to begin a new program: Money Matters. Taught by Jeffrey Waldron, the Chief Professional Officer of Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia, the class aims to build money management skills in teens. The classes will be held once a week for ten weeks, and alternate between the Bridesburg and Frankford Clubs.

On Monday, January 3, 2005, Jevon Kearse joined other NFL players on Wheel of Fortune to play for the charities of their choice. Kearse plays defensive end for the Philadelphia Eagles, a team that has gone 13-3 this 2004-05 season. While growing up in Fort Myers, Florida, Kearse was a Boys & Girls Club member at the Lee County Shady Oaks Unit in his hometown. He chose to give back to an organization that has been a part of his childhood.