Northeast Region: Thank you to our donors for helping “Ignite the Light” through the Holiday Letter Campaign

During a year with so many uncertainties, one thing continued to remain true – the giving hearts of those in our community.

Through our Ignite the Light holiday letter campaign, the Northeast Region of the Boys & Girls Clubs of North Louisiana surpassed our goal. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, supporters answered the call to help our area youth who need us now more than ever.

In 2019, we launched our “Ignite the Light” campaign urging donors to give to the Boys & Girls Club and help spark the light in all our kids. When our members walk through our Clubhouse doors, we want them to know how unique they are, highlight their talents and celebrate their accomplishments.

 In 2020, for 26 weeks, (182 long days, exactly half of the 2020 year), that light was very dim. We were forced to close our doors as this pandemic took over the country, and the simple things became the big things – the desire to give a healthy snack, a hot meal, an adult who will be there no matter what.

 We re-opened our doors on September 14. Cody, a fifth grader, was one of the first members to return to the Club. He has been a member since he was in the first grade. The other day, Cody’s father came to pick him up early. Cody walked to the front of the Clubhouse with his head hanging low, telling his dad he didn’t want to leave.

 “I just love the beauty of the building and all the people who work here,” Cody said. “When I was at home, I wasn’t able to see all the staff and my friends.” That staff includes his group leader, Mr. Jaylen. “He always brings us up when we are feeling down.”

Despite the extraordinary challenges of trying to serve our kids during these extraordinary times, Cody’s experience at the Club in just a few short days confirmed why we do what we do by providing a safe, supervised environment where young people can develop into positive, productive members of society.

Through the kindness of our donors, we are able to ensure members, like Cody, continue to have access to meals, mentors and everyday necessities to help them overcome today’s relentless obstacles. Thank you to all who support the clubs in the Boys & Girls Clubs of North Louisiana organization.

We are looking forward to an even bigger 2021 where we can provide even more youth in North Louisiana a safe, supervised environment where they can develop into positive, productive members of society. We could not do it without YOU!