Lafayette, LA – The Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana is thrilled to announce the awards received at this year’s Annual Louisiana Area Council, recognizing exceptional achievements in programs and by dedicated supporters of our Clubs. The awards ceremony took place on Friday, August 16, 2024, in Natchez, Mississippi, celebrating the remarkable contributions and successes within our community.
This year’s award recipients for Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana include a diverse group who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to the mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs: to empower all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens.
Award Categories and Recipients:
Professional of the Year Award: Tamara Anthony
Director of Operations whose commitment and innovation have greatly enriched the lives of our members for over 27 years.
Outstanding Program Award: Deep Dive Learning Adventures – Cheniere Energy Boys & Girls Club in Lake Charles, LA
Recognized for its excellence in delivering an “Under the Sea” summer programming that addresses the needs and aspirations of young people in our community.
Outstanding Program Award: Club Leader-In-Training – Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana New Iberia Units
Provide youth with an opportunity to explore diverse career paths, cultivate essential skills to enhance their value to future employers, and apply these skills both within the club and in the broader community. Participants engage in activities such as creating professional resumes and developing crucial soft skills, including time management, interpersonal communication, and conflict resolution.
New Board Member of the Year: Jhordi Henderson, COX Communications
Jhordi, alumni of Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana, has demonstrated exceptional dedication by actively participating in board meetings, committees, and mentoring Club youth. Through his employer, Jhordi and his COX team provided invaluable services to our Clubs to ready them for program sessions, showcasing a deep commitment to our cause.
Board Member of the Year: Joe Spell, Tides Medical
Joe has embraced his role as Chairman of the Board with exceptional dedication and commitment. His leadership exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding leader and has significantly enhanced the effectiveness and impact of the Board, demonstrating what it means to lead with both vision and heart.
Board Team of the Year: Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana
Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana excels in strategic vision and leveraging diverse expertise to guide the organization towards long-term goals. They ensure effective governance through clear policies, strong communication, and active engagement. Their commitment to the mission drives the overall organizational success.
C.A.R.E. Award (Children are the Reason for Excellence): Arelene and Michelle Hargroder, Courtesy Automotive Group
Courtesy Automotive Group hosted the 2nd Annual Training4Life event, a day with hands-on activities focused on building confidence and leadership. Participants enjoyed hearing from motivational speakers, took part in a talent show, engaged in fun activities, and were provided delicious food, themed shirts, sweatshirts, and other swag. The Training4Life event aims to bring young people together from 6 of our Clubs for a day of fun with a purpose.
Contribution to the Movement: Lynwood Creswell
Lynwood was awarded for her significant strides in advancing the mission and driving meaningful change. Lynwood was celebrated for her outstanding commitment, innovative efforts, and impactful actions that contributed to the growth and success of the movement over the last 25 years. Lynwood has played a crucial role in furthering the organization’s goals and creating positive, lasting effects within the community.
“Every year, the Area Council Awards give us the opportunity to highlight and celebrate the incredible achievements of our volunteers, staff, and community partners with all Boys & Girls Clubs in Louisiana,” said Rhyan Wheeler, President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana. “This year’s honorees exemplify the spirit of dedication and excellence that drives our mission forward. We are incredibly proud they have been recognized their contributions.”
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana
This year marks the 54th anniversary of Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana. Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana operates under a mission to empower all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. Serving youth in 8 different locations, Boys & Girls Clubs provide opportunities through after school programs and summer camps with activities focusing on Academic Success, Healthy Lifestyles & Habits, and Good Character & Leadership. Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana is proud to announce the opening of its 9th Club in Crowley in Fall of 2024.
If interested in supporting the Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcacadiana.com/donate or call 337-268-9555.
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